The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has confirmed that next year’s 45th Tarehe Sita anniversary celebrations will be held in the Kigezi sub-region.
UPDF Chief Political Commissar, Major General Henry Matsiko revealed that the army will carry out a series of community activities, including health camps, construction of classroom blocks, and other civil-military projects, as part of the celebrations.
Speaking during a briefing, Major General Matsiko said the Chief of Defence Forces and Senior Presidential Advisor on Special Operations decided that the anniversary honors the historical efforts that shaped Uganda’s liberation struggle.
“Tarehe Sita serves as a tribute to the efforts of the founding members of the revolutionary forces , the National Resistance Army, later the Uganda People’s Defence Forces in advancing a people-led revolution aimed at achieving freedom, democracy and socio-economic transformation,” he said.
He noted that Tarehe Sita is not only about commemorating the events of February 6, 1981, when the NRA launched its armed struggle, but also about recognizing earlier liberation efforts.
“It is a moment to honor the contributions of the pioneers, from the independence nationalist movements, the University Students’ African Revolutionary Front of the 1960s, the Front for National Salvation (FRONASA) in the 1970s, and the special events of February 6, 1981, which marked the turning point in the people’s struggle for liberation,” he added.
The 45th Tarehe Sita will run under the theme:
“Defending the gains of the revolution and honoring the sacrifices of the freedom fighters , a call for national unity, peace and socio-economic transformation.”
Major General Matsiko emphasized that choosing Kigezi as the host region highlights the significant contribution of its patriots to liberation movements such as FRONASA, the NRA, and the UPDF.
“The choice of Kigezi sub-region as the main focus of the 45th Tarehe Sita anniversary celebrations is informed by its historic significance,” he said.
Major General Matsiko commended the public for their continued support to the UPDF and reaffirms the force’s commitment to regional peace, integration, and national security, urging Ugandans to uphold peace and unity during the electoral season.
The commemorations will spread across the country, but the national and main event will be held in Kigezi.