The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) officially launched the 45th Tarehe Sita celebrations in Rukungiri District, marking the start of a series of activities to commemorate the nation’s liberation struggle and honor the heroes who laid the foundation for Uganda’s peace and stability.
The launch event, held at Kakonkomo Primary School in Rukungiri Municipality, was presided over by the Minister of Security, Rtd. Maj Gen Jim Muhwezi, who applauded the UPDF for its unwavering dedication to serving the people of Uganda.
“The army is for the people, and the army works for you,” Muhwezi said.
The Minister urged communities to continue supporting the UPDF in its mission to uphold peace and security across the country.
He paid tribute to the nation’s freedom fighters—including Joseph Bitwari, James Karambuzi, and Bishop Festo Kivengere—for their courage and sacrifice during the liberation struggle.
Reflecting on Uganda’s progress, Muhwezi thanked God for enabling him to witness the fruits of the struggle he and others fought for. He highlighted the defeat of several rebel groups, including the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), and emphasised the significant development milestones achieved, such as improved road infrastructure in Rukungiri District.
The Minister further commended President Museveni and the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, for steering the UPDF into a professional, disciplined, and people-centered force.
He also applauded the leadership of Rukungiri District for continuously collaborating with the UPDF to improve livelihoods and safeguard national achievements.
Accompanying the Minister was Former Inspector General of Police, Rtd. Gen Kale Kayihura, who emphasised the historic bond between the UPDF and the civilian population, describing it as essential to Uganda’s stability and progress.
He praised the UPDF for maintaining its identity as a pro-people army.
Representing the Joint Staff Political Commissar Maj Gen Henry Masiko, the Commandant of the Oliver Reginald Tambo School of Leadership and Pan Africanism Center of Excellence in Kaweweta Brig Gen Justus Rukondo, elaborated on the historical significance of Tarehe Sita. He noted that the celebrations honor the first attack on Kabamba on February 6, 1981, an event that marked the beginning of the liberation war.
Rukondo also outlined ongoing Tarehe Sita civil-military activities in the region, including the construction of a classroom block at Kakonkomo Primary School and a medical waste incinerator in Bugangari.
The Resident District Commissioner for Rukungiri, Brown Kinkashemeza, praised the UPDF for ensuring peace and security in the district and across Uganda.
“In Rukungiri, people sleep peacefully even outside without fear. We thank God for those who brought this peace, both living and departed,” Kinkashemeza said.
The ceremony was attended by a high-level delegation including Joint Staff Policy and Strategy, Maj Gen Don Nabasa; Maj Gen (Rtd) Gavas Mugyenyi; the Chief of Staff Air Force, Brig Gen David Gonyi as well as senior and junior UPDF officers; militants; and hundreds of residents who gathered to celebrate the legacy of Tarehe Sita.
This year’s Tarehe Sita celebrations will continue with a series of community-focused projects and outreach programs across the region, underscoring the UPDF’s enduring commitment to fostering development, unity, and peace.