UPDF urged to teach mwananchi its ideology 

UPDF has been urged to inform people why they relate with them in an effort to protect the peace and security within the country and beyond.

The remarks were made by the Minister of State for East African Community Affairs, James Magode Ikuya while launching the Sironko district civil military activities to mark the 41st Tarehe Sita Anniversary.

This year's celebration will be held under the theme: "Retracing the peoples' struggle for peace and security for a modern Uganda," at Sironko district headquarters.

"The importance of this day is to enable the people to understand our association with the UPDF whose creation is recognised on the 6th of February," said Ikuya.

He encouraged soldiers to use the actvities to explain to the people why UPDF was formed, its ideology and what they were struggling for, its journey and organization.

Earlier, Ikuya planted a symbolic tree which he named "Ninalia Mengi," a name he got during the bush war that meant "crying for the country."

In his remarks Brig Gen David Gonyi who represented the Chief of Defence Forces recognised Magode Ikuya for having been part of the revolutionary group that laid a foundation for the UPDF that has now become a recognisable force in the region.

Gonyi said Tarehe Sita activities are a token of appreciation to the people of Uganda for their contribution to the liberation struggle.

"They link and reconnect the people with the UPDF.Our greatest strength is the strategic alliance with the people of Uganda," he said.

He commended the media fraternity as an important tool that brings information to the people who could have otherwise not accessed it.