The Acting Director of Defence Public Information (DDPI), Colonel Chris Magezi, has highlighted the remarkable progress of Uganda and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) as the nation commemorated the 45th Tarehe Sita Anniversary, marking 45 years since the National Resistance Army (NRA) launched the historic five-year guerrilla war that brought President Yoweri Museveni to power.
Speaking at Kabale National Teachers’ College during the celebrations on Friday, Magezi emphasized the country’s aspirations for continued growth and development.
"As we head into the future, we can only dream of greater and better things," he said, noting that Uganda has achieved an average annual economic growth of 6.5% over the past two decades, positioning it as one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa.
In honor of the occasion, Magezi noted that the Directorate of Defence Public Information, in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence and the UPDF, has produced a special magazine for Tarehe Sita, which contains rich and informative content reflecting the nation’s history and the evolution of the defence forces.
Reflecting on Uganda’s history, Magezi noted that the country’s defence institutions have been shaped by the lessons of history.
"Our conduct and traditions are informed by Uganda’s tragic history since independence. From 1962 to 1986, previous militaries were brutal, treated ordinary citizens as slaves, committed many crimes, and got away with their actions. The NRA answered this challenge decisively by affirming that the military is the servant of the people, and the people are the bosses,” he said.
Magezi added that over the past 45 years, the UPDF has undergone significant transformation, particularly in discipline, training, technology, and welfare.
"Today, the UPDF is known within Uganda and the region for its exemplary discipline. The transformation of our forces has enhanced operational readiness and improved the welfare of our personnel,” he said.
