Troops from the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) stationed at the International Peace Support Operations Training Centre (IPSO-TC) in Singo have carried out a series of community engagement activities in Nakaseke South ahead of the 45th Tarehe Sita celebrations.
The outreach, conducted across Semuto, Kapeka, Namusaale and Kona-Kilak townships, featured comprehensive cleaning exercises and a medical camp at Semuto Health Centre IV.
In Kapeka Town Council, UPDF leadership distributed mama kits and mosquito nets to expectant mothers, while hundreds of residents received free medical services from UPDF health teams.
During the official launch at Kapeka Town Council grounds, Nakaseke Resident District Commissioner, Byabasaijja Rose Mary, highlighted the enduring significance of the 1986 liberation struggle led by President Museveni.
She commended the President for his decisive and selfless leadership during a turbulent period and noted that the combination of liberation achievements, steady national leadership, and UPDF discipline has anchored Uganda’s peace and stability.
The Commandant of IPSO-TC Singo, Col Moses Nabaasa, reflected on the transformation of the National Resistance Army (NRA) into today’s UPDF, emphasizing that Tarehe Sita remains a defining tradition for the institution and reinforces the force’s commitment to serving Ugandans both on and off the battlefield.
“Tarehe Sita is not only a commemoration of our liberation journey but also a reaffirmation of our role as a people-centered force,” Nabaasa said.
He explained that this year’s community activities are aimed at honouring the sacrifices of those who fought in the liberation struggle, strengthening military-civilian relations, and promoting national unity.
Local leaders, including mayors, chairpersons, and community representatives, applauded the UPDF for consistently providing essential social services and supporting development initiatives in local communities.
Uganda commemorates February 6 each year as the founding date of the UPDF, marking the historic 1981 attack on Kabamba Barracks that ignited the protracted struggle culminating in the 1986 liberation.