The Prime Minister of the Republic of Uganda, Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, expressed profound appreciation for the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces, acknowledging their unwavering commitment and the crucial support from the populace.
She highlighted the remarkable journey of the once small guerilla force now evolved into a formidable Liberation Force attributing its success to the collective effort of revolutionaries, strategic partners and the civilian population.
Speaking at the National Launch of the 43rd Tarehe Sita Anniversary Week at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs Headquarters, Mbuya, Rt. Hon. Nabbanja extended gratitude to the UPDF and the Ministry of Defence. She also acknowledged the leadership of His Excellency, the Commander-in-Chief of the UPDF, for reflecting on the fifty-year journey of fighting for freedom and beyond.
The 43rd Tarehe Sita Anniversary will be celebrated in the Busoga Sub-region covering districts such as Jinja, Iganga, Luuka, Bugweri, Buyende, Namayingo, Bugiri, Mayuge, Kaliro, Namutumba, and Kamuli.
Rt. Hon. Nabbanja praised the UPDF for its active participation in National Development Projects aligning with its constitutional mandate. She specifically commended the Engineers Brigade for contributing to the construction of infrastructure for Ministries, Departments and Agencies emphasizing the Force’s role as a productive force.
Former Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Kintu Musoke, serving as the keynote speaker, paid tribute to the late Hon. Kirunda Kivejinja. Musoke highlighted Kivejinja’s introduction of a simplified form of “The Marxist theory” during his time as Chairman of the Uganda Students Association in New Delhi. This theory of the endless class struggle deeply influenced Yoweri Museveni as he launched the Front for National Salvation (FRONASA).
Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Hon. Vincent Bamulangaki Ssempijja, shared plans to establish the National Military Museum at Katonga, showcasing the revolutionary heritage of the liberation struggle. This initiative aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of Uganda’s socio-economic trajectory for current and future generations.
The Chief of Defence Forces, General Wilson Mbasu Mbadi, explained that Busoga Sub-region was selected to host this year’s Defence Forces Week to revisit the FRONASA circuit and recognize early efforts in the fight against Idi Amin. Gen. Mbadi detailed the historical significance of locations such as Kityerera Forest Camp, Busesa, Kaluuba and Musita Junction reflecting on the events of 1972 and the Holy Spirit Movement led by Alice Lakwena.
Notable attendees at the launch included Third Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Rukia Nakadama, Minister of State for Defence (Defence) Hon. Jackson Marksons Oboth, Permanent Secretary MODVA Mrs. Rosette Byengoma, Deputy CDF Lt Gen Peter Elwelu, Commander UPDF – Air Forces Lt Gen Charles Okidi, Joint Chief of Staff Maj Gen Leopold Kyanda, Service Chiefs, Members of Parliament from Busoga sub-region, district leaders, and others.
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