Former Minister of Energy and Mineral Development Ruth Nankabirwa has called on Ugandans to safeguard the gains of the country’s liberation struggle and work towards achieving high middle-income status.
Nankabirwa made the appeal as the country marked the 37th Heroes’ Day, saying the sacrifices made by Uganda’s heroes should continue to inspire citizens to preserve peace and stability while advancing national development.
“As a nation, we carry that legacy forward by protecting the gains of liberation and pressing toward the prosperous Uganda they envisioned, one that reaches high middle-income status and secures a dignified future for every citizen,” she said.
She noted that the country’s heroes extended beyond the battlefield, paying tribute to teachers, farmers, mothers and community leaders who contributed to Uganda’s journey towards freedom and development.
“The heroes we remember today were not only soldiers. They were teachers, farmers, mothers, and community leaders who chose Uganda above themselves,” Nankabirwa said.
She described peace and stability as a key legacy of the liberation struggle and urged Ugandans to build on that foundation to drive socio-economic transformation.
Nankabirwa also paid tribute to veterans and families of fallen heroes, acknowledging their continued sacrifice and contribution to the nation.
“To those who served, and to the families who still carry the weight of that service, we see you, and we honour you,” she said.
Uganda commemorates Heroes’ Day annually on June 9 in recognition of individuals who made significant contributions to the country’s liberation struggle and national development.