UPDF Launches National Defence Forces Week Ahead of 43rd Tarehe Sita Celebrations

The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) launched the National Defence Forces Week on Wednesday in preparation for the 43rd Tarehe Sita Celebrations, scheduled for February 6, 2024, in the Eastern District of Bugweri.

The colorful launch occurred at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs in Mbuya, a Kampala suburb.

During the launch, UPDF Chief of Defence Forces, General Wilson Mbasu Mbadi, stated that Tarehe Sita is an annual event celebrated by the UPDF and the people of Uganda to commemorate the founding of a new Uganda through the patriotic sacrifices of FRONASA/NRA/UPDF.

He emphasized the importance of this annual event for both the UPDF and the nation, highlighting its evolution from being celebrated inside the Barracks to being taken to the people.

Gen. Mbadi mentioned that the commemorations became regionalized in a rotational manner, and this year, UPDF heads to Busoga Sub Region.

In line with the strategic guidance of the Commander In Chief (C-I-C), President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, UPDF chose Busoga Sub Region to accomplish a six-pronged mission. This includes retracing the FRONASA circuit, recognizing earlier efforts in the fight against Idi Amin, and reminding Ugandans of the defeat of rebel Commander Alice Lakwena and forces in the late 1980s.

The statement by UPDF points out that holding Tarehe Sita in Busoga enables the Army to conduct Civil Military activities addressing factors making the region vulnerable to extremist groups such as the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF). The event will also focus on wealth creation efforts, including Wetland utilization, Parish Development Model (PDM), Emyooga programs, and general ideological and political work, especially among youth and women groups.

This year’s Tarehe Sita activities will run under the theme: “Celebrating the People’s Struggle for Unity, Security, and Peace for Socio-Economic Transformation.”