PRESIDENT MUSEVENI UNDERSCORES ROLE OF EDUCATION AND SKILLING THE GIRL CHILD IN EMPOWERING WOMEN

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has underscored the role of education and skilling the girl child in empowering women and the entire society. According to the President, when the National Resistance Movement (NRM) came to power, it fought the suppression of women and other groups that faced marginalisation on account of cultural and historical factors. “We did this by guaranteeing education access for all at primary and secondary schools levels i.e. UPE and USE. This was a fundamental empowerment of the girl child because when someone is educated, he/she cannot be suppressed. That was the real beginning of our reforms,” he said. President Museveni who was represented by the Vice President, H.E Jessica Alupo made the remarks today while officiating at the International Women’s Day celebrations at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds. The celebrations ran under the theme: “Scaling up investments to accelerate access to justice for all women and girls in Uganda”. The President explained that in 1986, the NRM government observed that although women formed more than 50 percent of the total population of 14 million Ugandans at that time, their full potential was not realised on account of their education, lack of opportunities, chronic health and early death. “Women were trapped in a very disadvantaged position despite the fact that they were at the centre of the subsistence economy and also provided at least half the labour for producing the few cash crops,” he said. He noted that when the government introduced free education for all, those who benefited in a special way were the girls because they were the ones who were kept at home in the past as the resources were concentrated on boys. “It is the mother's level of education and access to information which will decide whether or not she will go for a tetanus vaccination during pregnancy, whether a trained person will be present at birth, whether she knows the advantages of breastfeeding, whether foods will be cooked in the most appropriate way, whether water will be boiled and hands washed, whether a child will be weighed or vaccinated, among others,” President Museveni asserted. “Therefore, education and skilling of the girl child is an effective method of empowering not only women but the entire society.” To empower women more, President Museveni added that the government introduced positive discrimination in favor of women to bring them to the front. “For instance, for the university entry, we have the 1.5 points given to girls, they are free to stand for any elective office, but they also have additional seats which they compete for. That way, we have been able to increase their numbers in public offices, and they have proved to be better leaders and managers than men,” he said. “During our resistance against dictatorships, we treated everyone equally and I found women to be more resolute than many men. Thirdly, in order to provide justice to women, we introduced big punishments for rape and defilement. This was to protect the women and girls who were victims of these crimes.” On the other hand, President Museveni said the government has been able to fight inhuman cultural practices that undermine the dignity of women such as female genital mutilation, early marriages, wife inheritance, wife beating, among others. Furthermore, the government also introduced poverty alleviation programs which are aimed at creating wealth and jobs at the household level. This, the President said, was part of the measures to empower women. “When the households get out of poverty through commercial agriculture, manufacturing, services and ICT, it's easier to address the remaining challenges faced by women. When families become wealthy, they are able to educate all their children. Therefore, families getting out of poverty is a good base for solving many problems,” he stated. President Museveni assured that the NRM government has put in place the necessary resources and infrastructure like enough electricity, good roads, among others, to guarantee the profitability of the business enterprises. “However, infrastructure development alone is not enough though it must come first. Development is a collective good for everyone, but wealth and jobs belong to individuals, families, groups and companies. We should not have spectators in the drive towards household incomes.” On her part, H.E Alupo congratulated Ugandans for the overwhelming victory they extended to President Museveni and the NRM government during the recently concluded general elections. “We thank you very much as elected leaders for exercising your mandate and electing leaders at all levels to serve you. We're sincerely thankful to all of you,” she said. “H.E the President is in Arusha, Tanzania where he was elected the chair of the East African Community (EAC). Join me in congratulating H.E the President upon assuming the Chairmanship of the EAC,” H.E Alupo said. The Vice President also launched the 2nd national action plan against gender-based violence 2026-2031, Uganda gender and quality climate strategy 2026-31 and national strategy to ending genital mutilation 2026-31. The Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Hon. Betty Amongi said the International Women’s Day is celebrated in remembrance of the struggle that women and men throughout the world went through to achieve women empowerment. “It is the day that we celebrate the gains that we have made and reflect on the agenda that still needs to be done. We celebrate the struggle, the courage of all the women who are determined, the ordinary rural women who have worked tirelessly to feed and educate their children in order to anchor Uganda as a society because without a family, Uganda doesn't have a foundation and without the women, there's no family,” she said. Hon. Amongi noted that on this day, stakeholders also call for action for what needs to be done to achieve gender equality. “We are dedicated to promoting programs that eliminate poverty, empower women economically and ensure women's standards of living are improved because we believe economically independent women can protect themselves and their children from injustices,” she said. The Minister of State for Gender and Culture, Hon. Peace Mutuuzo, said Uganda was privileged to be among the first countries in Africa to provide opportunities for women to take a centre stage in the leadership of the country and to determine policies that favour women in the economic development of the country. “Ladies and gentlemen, our demand for equal rights and access to justice is not just a modern fashion, it is a pathway through which Uganda will be able to develop faster,” she said. “We have been able to see how women have progressed from the time the NRM government allowed them to participate in all areas of socio-economic development.” She however noted that in the quest and struggle for emancipation and gender equality, a few challenges still stand. “Gender-based violence has remained high. 52 percent of all the women have ever faced physical violence, the few who have not faced such have at least faced economic violence. Today, we would wish to mobilise not only women but also men to acknowledge the space for women, support them in developing this country and maintaining peace together,” she said. The United Nations (UN) Resident Coordinator in Uganda, Mr. Leonard Zulu, said Uganda has made commendable strides in protecting women’s participation in governance through affirmative action policies, among others. “This year’s global theme is a clear call to move from commitments to concrete results; to ensure that justice is real, accessible in the daily lives of women and girls,” he said. “Access to Justice is not only a legal matter but also a development imperative: a human rights obligation and a cornerstone of peace and stability.” Hajjat Faridah Kibowa, the Chairperson of the National Women’s Council- Uganda, appreciated the women around the country who supported and voted for President Museveni in the recent general elections. “It demonstrates clearly that women are not spectators in nation building but active partners in shaping the destiny of our nation,” she said. Hajjat Kibowa also noted that the National Women’s Council was established by an Act of Parliament in 1993 and continues to serve as the voice of women from the village to the national level. “We commend the government's commitment to gender inclusion within the justice sector. Today women constitute over 50.6% of the judiciary in Uganda.” At the same event, a total of 34 distinguished Ugandans were awarded with national medals for their distinctive role in the development of Uganda. The event was also attended by the Chief Justice, His Lordship, Flavian Zeija, the Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, the 3rd Deputy Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Lukia Nakadama, Ministers, Members of Parliament, Members of the Diplomatic Corps, religious and cultural leaders, among other dignitaries.

2026-03-08

STATEMENT BY H.E PRESIDENT YOWERI MUSEVENI DURING THE 25TH EAC SUMMIT IN ARUSHA TANZANIA

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2026-03-07

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI ASSUMES CHAIRMANSHIP OF THE EAST AFRICAN COMMUNITY SUMMIT

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today assumed the Chairmanship of the East African Community (EAC) Summit, taking over from the outgoing Chairperson, President William Ruto of the Republic of Kenya, at the conclusion of the EAC Heads of State Summit held at the Arusha International Conference Centre. During the Summit, Heads of State and Government also approved the appointment of Ambassador Stephen Patrick Mbundi of the United Republic of Tanzania as the new Secretary General of the East African Community. In his remarks as the incoming Chairperson of the Summit, President Museveni thanked the leaders of the region for entrusting him with the responsibility of guiding the Community over the next year and conveyed greetings from the people of Uganda. He emphasized that East Africa stands at a critical moment in its history and urged leaders and citizens of the region to remain focused on the historic mission of Africa’s transformation. President Museveni reflected on what he described as the challenge of “Okukonesa”, the mis-cooking of the African Revolution, a metaphor drawn from local languages describing food that fails to cook properly because the necessary heat is not applied for long enough. He cautioned that Africa must avoid repeating historical mistakes that led to colonisation and underdevelopment, stressing that weak leadership, disunity, and failure to adopt scientific and technological advancement had historically undermined the continent. He recalled that by the year 1900, almost the entire African continent had fallen under colonial rule, largely due to divisions among African societies and the inability of leaders to respond strategically to the encroachment of foreign powers. Despite this, he noted that Africa survived because of the resilience of its people and the emergence of liberation movements across the continent and in the diaspora. The President highlighted the historic mission of the African liberation struggle, which he said centred on four key objectives: liberation, modernisation, prosperity, and strategic security. He emphasized that the foundation for achieving these goals remains “Uhuru na Umoja” — Freedom and Unity. According to President Museveni, while Africa has largely achieved political independence, the challenge of unity remains unfinished. He stressed that economic integration is essential to building prosperity, noting that production alone cannot create wealth unless producers have access to large markets. He observed that Africa’s combined GDP remains relatively small compared to major global economies, arguing that fragmented markets across the continent limit economic transformation. Drawing lessons from countries such as China, India, and South Korea, he stressed that large internal markets are critical to economic growth and industrialisation. The President therefore called on the region, particularly the youth, to focus on building productive economies, strengthening regional integration, and avoiding distractions that could undermine the long-term mission of development. He also underscored the importance of strategic security, noting that modern states must be capable of defending themselves across all domains, land, air, sea, and space while working together to safeguard regional stability. President Museveni paid tribute to the historic leaders who championed African unity and liberation, including Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, Sheikh Abeid Amani Karume, Kwame Nkrumah, Ahmed Sékou Touré, and Modibo Keïta, noting that their vision of African unity remains relevant today. He particularly commended Tanzania for its historic role in advancing regional integration and supporting liberation movements across the continent. During the Summit, several key milestones were also marked. The meeting witnessed the swearing-in of judges appointed by the Summit to the East African Court of Justice, the launch of the 7th EAC Development Strategy (2026/27–2030/31), and the launch of the EAC Customs Bond, aimed at facilitating trade across the region. The Summit also recognized regional youth excellence through the awarding of winners of the 2024 EAC Essay Writing Competition. The Summit concluded with the presentation of the official Summit Communiqué by the EAC Secretary General, outlining key resolutions and decisions adopted by the Heads of State. Under President Museveni’s chairmanship, the East African Community is expected to deepen regional integration, strengthen economic cooperation, and advance the collective prosperity and security of the region’s more than 300 million citizens.

2026-03-07

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI CALLS FOR GLOBAL JUSTICE AND AFFLUENCE DURING IFTAR DINNER AT STATE HOUSE ENTEBBE

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, also the current Chair of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) has called on world leaders to pursue global justice and affluence, warning that conflicts driven by identity politics continue to destabilize regions and undermine development. “I would like to use this season of Ramadan to call upon people around the world to work for justice everywhere and for global affluence,” he said. President Museveni made the remarks yesterday while hosting the Muslim community for an Iftar dinner at State House Entebbe. The dinner ran under the theme: “Peace, Unity and Reconciliation: Our Divine Mandate for National Building”. The President reflected on the rising global tensions, particularly in the Middle East, and urged leaders to prioritize dialogue, fairness, and economic cooperation. He noted that Uganda maintains friendly relations with many countries involved in the Middle East tensions, including Israel, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and the United States. He revealed that he engaged several leaders privately to encourage dialogue and peaceful solutions. The President reiterated his long-standing support for the two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, arguing that mutual recognition between Israel and Palestine could help stabilize the region. “I have always told the leaders involved that both sides should recognize each other so that the two-state solution can work,” President Museveni said. He warned that politics based on identity rather than shared interests often leads to prolonged conflict. Reflecting on Uganda’s own experience, President Museveni emphasized that prosperity depends on cooperation and integration rather than division. “As a cattle keeper, I produce milk, beef, and bananas. Whoever buys from me makes me happy. It is not just my tribe that supports my prosperity, it is Ugandans and even the wider region,” he said. “That is why unity is important. Dividing people is short-sighted.” The President also called on developed countries to support economic transformation in poorer regions, arguing that global prosperity benefits everyone. “If you are a smart businessman, why would you want to trade with a poor person?” he asked. “If people have income and wealth, they will buy your products. That is why the world should work towards global affluence.” On the other hand, President Museveni congratulated the Muslim community for observing the holy month of Ramadan and commended Ugandans for maintaining unity and rejecting sectarian politics. “I welcome all our Muslim brothers and sisters. I congratulate you for fasting during this holy month of Ramadan. It is not yet over, but we have already gone some distance.” President Museveni also thanked Ugandans, including the Muslim community, for their continued support and for embracing the message of unity that the NRM government has consistently advocated. “I want to thank the Muslims and all Ugandans for massively supporting us during the just concluded elections. I also congratulate you because when we asked you to avoid sectarianism and love all Ugandans irrespective of their differences, you listened,” he said. According to President Museveni, Uganda’s political stability over the years has largely been a result of rejecting divisive identity politics based on religion, tribe, or ethnicity. He noted that Uganda once suffered from identity-based politics, particularly during the early years around independence. “In the 1962 elections, political parties were largely organized along religious and sectarian lines. That poison nearly destroyed Uganda because no party had a nationwide base,” President Museveni explained. He said the situation forced fragile alliances that eventually collapsed and contributed to instability and conflict. On her part, the Vice President, H.E Jessica Alupo thanked the President and the First Lady, Janet Kataaha Museveni, for maintaining the tradition of hosting the Muslim community for the annual Iftar dinner. “Thank you, Your Excellency and Maama Janet, for extending this annual invitation to our Muslim brothers and sisters to gather here at State House to observe the Iftar dinner,” H.E Alupo said. She congratulated Muslims upon reaching the later stages of Ramadan and praised the spiritual values associated with the holy month. “Ramadan reminds us of the key messages of faith—prayer, thanksgiving, and fasting. I congratulate the Muslim community for the journey you have undertaken during this sacred period,” she noted. The Vice President also commended the theme of the event: ‘ Peace, Unity and Reconciliation: Our Divine Mandate for Nation Building’, saying it speaks directly to Uganda’s development aspirations. “Without peace, development is not possible,” she said, adding that Uganda has made significant progress in maintaining stability. She further applauded the leadership of the President and the security forces for preserving peace in the country. “Uganda is an island of peace in this region. We should not take this for granted. As citizens, we must all work together to preserve it.” Meanwhile, the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among, thanked the Muslim community for its continued support to the country’s leadership and national development. She also revealed that discussions on the establishment of Kadhi courts are currently before Parliament. “The issue of Kadhi courts is before us in Parliament, and we appreciate the trust that has been given to us to handle such important matters,” she said. Rt. Hon. Among also commended the President for sustaining the tradition of hosting the Muslim community for Iftar at State House. “We thank you for making this Iftar gathering a tradition and for your continued support to the Muslim community in Uganda,” she added. In his remarks, the Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubajje, congratulated President Museveni on his re-election and praised the government for promoting religious freedom and supporting Muslim participation in national development. “Your Excellency, we convey our sincere congratulations upon your re-election under the National Resistance Movement,” the Mufti said. He noted that the country has experienced institutional restoration and socio-economic transformation over the years, adding that the Muslim community appreciates the space given for freedom of worship. “As the Quran reminds us, Allah loves those who are just. We commend your leadership for supporting programs that promote national progress,” he said. The Mufti revealed that the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council has registered Imams across the country and initiated programs aimed at improving their livelihoods. “We have successfully registered imams across Uganda and have initiated Imam SACCOs to enable them participate actively in national wealth creation programs,” he said. He added that Uganda currently has about 16,300 mosques, which serve as centers for spiritual guidance and community development. He also mentioned the council has also established agricultural training centers to support farmers with modern and certified farming practices. “Many people plant crops without proper knowledge of how to manage them. We have opened various training centers to provide farmers with technical skills that will improve productivity,” he explained. The Mufti also expressed concern about conflicts in parts of the world, particularly in the Middle East, calling for renewed commitment to peace. “The ongoing conflicts are affecting humanity and causing loss of life. The world must renew its commitment to peace and mutual understanding. May Allah help us,” he said. He further noted that recent global developments could affect Ugandan pilgrims planning to travel for the annual Hajj pilgrimage. Sheikh Ashraf Mutagubya, a lecturer at the Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU), noted that the holy month of Ramadan offers Muslims an opportunity for spiritual reflection and wisdom. “During Ramadan, Muslims dedicate more time to reading the Quran and deepening their understanding of faith. It is a period that makes believers more reflective, and the wisdom gained during this holy month should guide us even beyond Ramadan,” he said. He added that peace and reconciliation remain essential for the progress of both the Muslim community and the nation at large. “Through peace and reconciliation, we can develop more inclusively as a community and as a nation,” Sheikh Mutagubya said. He also commended the government for recognizing the role of Muslims in national development, particularly through the introduction of Islamic banking and finance reforms. “For many years, Muslims have longed to participate more actively in national development. His Excellency saw it fit to consider our faith by introducing Islamic banking and finance, which has created an important opportunity for our community,” he noted. Sheikh Mutagubya further acknowledged the government’s leadership in maintaining stability in Uganda and encouraged Muslims to remain active contributors to the country’s progress. “The government has carried the burden of leadership and ensured that our nation remains stable in this region. As Uganda continues to move forward, Muslims should not remain spectators but partners in building our country through productive patriotism,” he said. “May Allah grant you strength where leadership is heavy and wisdom where judgment is required. May this Ramadan strengthen our unity and commitment to justice. May Allah bless Uganda, its leadership, and unite its people.” The Iftar dinner brought together Muslim leaders and the faithful, government officials including Ministers and Members of Parliament, among other invited guests.

2026-03-06

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI ARRIVES IN ARUSHA FOR THE 25TH EAC HEADS OF STATE SUMMIT

H.E. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has arrived in Arusha, United Republic of Tanzania, to participate in the 25th Ordinary Summit of the East African Community (EAC) Heads of State. The summit is being held under the theme: “Deepening Integration for Improved Livelihoods of EAC Citizens.” The meeting will bring together regional leaders to deliberate on strengthening economic cooperation, enhancing regional integration, and advancing initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of citizens across the East African Community. Upon arrival in Arusha, President Museveni was received by a delegation of Tanzanian and Ugandan officials led by Hon. Patrobas Katambi, Tanzania’s Minister of Home Affairs, and Hon. Dennis Londo, Tanzania’s Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade. Other officials present at the reception included: Dr. Samwel Shelukindo, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Tanzania) Amb. Mindi Kasiga Robert Mbwasi, Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Industry and Trade (Tanzania) Hon. John Mulimba, Uganda’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in charge of Regional Affairs Amb. Fred Mwesigye, Uganda’s High Commissioner to Tanzania Amb. Anne Katusiime, Head of the Uganda Consulate in Arusha Brig. Ronald Bigirwa, UPDF Defence Advisor The summit is expected to review progress on key regional integration pillars including trade, infrastructure development, and economic transformation, while also addressing emerging regional priorities aimed at fostering sustainable development and prosperity for the people of East Africa. President Museveni’s participation underscores Uganda’s continued commitment to the goals of the East African Community and the strengthening of regional cooperation.

2026-03-06

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI CALLS FOR DISCIPLINE, HARD WORK AND TRUST IN GOD DURING TAREHE SITA THANKSGIVING BREAKFAST

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni today called on Ugandans to combine hard work with trust in God, saying this is the true path to success. “Man was created in the image of God; therefore, we have the power to create, add, subtract, and exercise dominion over nature all under the guidance of God. What I don’t accept is relying on prayer alone without work. Success comes through hard work and trust in God, not just prayer,” he said. The President who was in the company of the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni, made the remarks during the 15th Tarehe Sita anniversary thanksgiving breakfast at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MODVA) / Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) headquarters, Mbuya. The event, organized under MODVA/ UPDF, was held under the theme: “Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; then you will be prosperous and successful”. Joshua 1:8. The prayer of dedication was led by the Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, Lt. Gen. Sam Okiding, who read from Exodus 15:1–15 and offered prayers for the UPDF and the country at large. President Museveni, also the Commander-in-Chief of the UPDF congratulated Ugandans on the 45th Tarehe Sita, marking the start of the resistance at Kabamba. He also thanked the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba for reminding Ugandans of the NRA’s role in key operations, including Kabamba and Masindi, emphasizing the importance of remembering the sacrifices of those who fought for freedom. Reflecting on his personal journey, President Museveni shared instances where faith and effort intersected. He recalled a time as a student when a timely cow purchase allowed him to continue his studies, and recounted the early Kabamba attack in 1981, noting that the setbacks were part of God’s plan as the resistance lacked sufficient manpower. He highlighted the need to teach future generations about the nation’s challenges and history. “My Bazzukulu today have not seen the shortages, killings, brutalities of old armies, impassable roads, or early childhood deaths. We must continue to address poverty, corruption, poor roads, education gaps, and health sector issues,” he said. Finally, President Museveni announced that land has been secured to build a museum dedicated to the resistance, ensuring that future generations understand the struggles of their country and the lessons they carry. “We got some land, we are going to build a museum of the resistance so that we give the information to the new generation about the problems of their country and the efforts that were extended,” he said. “The theme of today’s occasion is important: if you stick to the code of conduct, you will succeed. This is not about money, it is about discipline, hard work, and trust in God.” In her prayer, Maama Janet thanked the Lord for guiding Uganda over the past 45 years, for His grace on the UPDF since the Kabamba attack in 1981, and for the critical role the security forces played in ensuring peace during the recent electoral season, as well as for their continued contribution to regional stability. Hon. Jacob Oboth Oboth, the Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, expressed gratitude to the First Lady for accompanying the President and reflected on the significance of the annual thanksgiving ceremony that follows Tarehe Sita. “Thank you, Maama, for accompanying the President,” he said. He explained that after Tarehe Sita, the ministry organizes a thanksgiving ceremony to reflect, recollect, and renew their commitment to national goals and milestones achieved over the years. “This occasion allows us to honor God and recommit ourselves to the progress we have made in various sectors,” he said. Hon. Oboth highlighted the importance of the day’s theme, which focused on defending the gains and honoring the sacrifices of Uganda’s freedom fighters. “With the theme of defending the gains and sacrifices of our national fighters, we come together to thank God for the many blessings bestowed upon our country,” he said. He also congratulated President Museveni on his recent electoral victory. “The celebrations mark not only the 45th Tarehe Sita anniversary but also reflect the courage, resilience, and commitment of our nation under your leadership, Your Excellency,” he added. In a message delivered on his behalf by Lt. Gen. Okiding, Gen. Muhoozi said this year’s 45th Tarehe Sita celebrations in Kabale were a moment to reflect on Uganda’s progress and honour the sacrifices of the freedom fighters. “We celebrated our 45th Tarehe Sita in Kabale under the theme of defending and protecting the gains of the revolution, and honouring the sacrifices of the freedom fighters,” he noted. Gen. Muhoozi said the call for unity, peace and socio-economic transformation was clearly reflected in the choices Ugandans made on the polling day. “This call was translated by Ugandans through their ballots, demonstrating their desire to protect the gains of the revolution and consolidate the country’s progress,” the CDF said. He emphasized that UPDF’s journey from a small liberation force to a professional national army has been guided by faith and principle. “It is only God who has enabled us to reach the level of prosperity and success we are witnessing today. We thank the Almighty God for giving our President the strength and wisdom to lead us up to this day,” he said. On his part, Lt. Gen. Okiding highlighted the steady growth of the UPDF, which has become a professional force contributing nationally, regionally, and globally. “Day by day, the UPDF grew, standing firmly on clear principles. We have thrived on professionalism and contributed not only nationally but regionally and globally,” he said. He reiterated that Uganda’s national motto, ‘For God and My Country,’ remains a cornerstone of the UPDF’s foundation. The retired Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Rev. Luke Orombi, expressed gratitude to God for the journey Uganda has undertaken over the years. “I am so thankful to the President, but above all, I give thanks to God,” Archbishop Orombi said. “I have seen difficult days. I have seen seasons of uncertainty. I have witnessed prayers being lifted. And today, it is unique and powerful to see soldiers gathered to thank God.” Drawing from Scripture, he reflected on the leadership transition from Moses to Joshua, noting that the past decades of leadership in Uganda have helped many understand the biblical account more deeply. “The last years of leadership have opened our eyes to the Book of Joshua,” he said. “Joshua took over from Moses and led the children of Israel into the Promised Land. The salvation and the fulfilment of God’s promise took 40 years.” Archbishop Orombi thanked God for the national army and prayed for its continued commitment to its calling. “I thank God for our national army. May you continue to remain a people’s army, guided by purpose and faith,” he said. He also prayed for wisdom for President Museveni as he leads the country. “May God grant the President wisdom to fulfil his calling as the leader of this nation,” he added. Archbishop Orombi noted that Uganda has enjoyed peace and has extended support to neighbouring countries in times of need. “When a nation honours God, God prospers that nation and grants it peace and even peaceful neighbours,” he said. The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Mrs. Rosette Byengoma, welcomed President Museveni, the First Lady, and the distinguished guests, noting that the gathering was not merely ceremonial but deeply spiritual and reflective. “It is my great honour to welcome Your Excellency, the First Lady, and all our distinguished guests to this 15th Tarehe Sita thanksgiving. Today, we gather as one family, united to honour the Almighty God for His faithfulness,” she said. She also paid tribute to the UPDF, which began its liberation struggle in 1981, describing it as a force built on professionalism, practical discipline and clear principles. “Tarehe Sita is not just an event on the calendar. It is a symbol of courage and conviction. It reminds us of our responsibility to safeguard security, democracy and national unity,” she noted. On behalf of the Ministry and the entire UPDF fraternity, Mrs. Byengoma congratulated President Museveni upon his recent electoral victory, saying the renewed mandate reflected the trust Ugandans continue to place in his leadership. “We pray for God’s continued guidance, wisdom and strength as you lead our nation forward. We thank God for giving Uganda a visionary leader committed to a better future,” she said. This year’s national Tarehe Sita celebrations were held in Kabale District under the theme: “Defending the Gains of the Revolution and Honouring the Sacrifice of the Freedom Fighters: A Call for National Unity, Peace and Socio-Economic Transformation.” Mrs. Byengoma said Kabale, located in Uganda’s historic Kigezi region, provided a fitting backdrop for the celebrations, reminding the nation of the sacrifices made during the liberation struggle. “The theme challenges us to honour the sacrifice and dedication of the freedom fighters whose commitment laid the foundation for today’s peace and stability,” she said. There was also an emotional testimony from Lt. Gen. (Rtd) John Mugume, who reflected on his early days in the liberation struggle, particularly his time in Kabamba. He recalled the difficult and uncertain moments he faced as a young soldier, describing the immense sacrifices that defined that period. “I remember my time in Kabamba and the trying moments we went through as young soldiers. The sacrifices were enormous,” he said. Lt. Gen. Mugume noted that communication was a major challenge at the time. Unlike today, there were no mobile phones to enable constant consultation and coordination. “Things were not easy. There were no phones. The only line of communication moved from Kabamba to Ngoma, Katonga and other areas. We carried out our tasks without supervision, yet we remained committed,” he said. He explained that despite the hardships and pressure, they pressed on with determination, driven by belief in the cause. Reflecting on the progress made since those early days, he emphasized that Uganda has undergone remarkable transformation. “The Uganda of then is very different from the Uganda of now,” he said. Lt. Gen. Mugume expressed gratitude to President Museveni for the leadership and support extended to him and his colleagues over the years, noting that faith remained central throughout their journey. “We thank President Museveni for what he did for us and for the country. Above all, God has been at the centre of it all,” he said. He added that veterans remain proud of the institution they helped build. “As veterans, we are very proud of the UPDF, and we are proud of President Museveni,” he concluded. The function was attended by UPDF senior and other officers, families of the UPDF officers, religious leaders, and other distinguished guests.

2026-03-04