By Rosette Nandutu,

Pilgrims are feeling the pinch of the rising commodity prices, with many missing several meals.

Jackson Karugaba, another pilgrim from Mbarara says that he had planned to spend roughly 20,000 Shillings on food along the way to Namugongo and 15,000 while at Namugongo, however says that before reaching Namugongo, he had already spent 35,000 Shillings. He adds that due to the hike in commodity prices, few well-wishers gave the pilgrims food during the trek to Namugongo

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Those that established restaurants at the shrines are also counting losses as some pilgrims forego some meals. In previous celebrations, the restaurants would be filled with pilgrims.

The commodity prices have also limited several individuals and organizations that used to offer complimentary meals for pilgrims at sites.

The priest in charge of Catholic Shrines, Rev Fr Vincent Lubega notes that over the years, parishioners and a few volunteers have been feeding pilgrims, particularly those who arrive early, by offering three meals a day as well as drinking water.

Luke Oweyesigyire, the Deputy Kampala Metropolitan Police Spokesperson notes that police are also seeking resources to cater for pilgrims who will get stranded after the celebrations.