Ministry Of Defence Engages Kigezi Leaders Ahead Of 45th Tarehe Sita Anniversary

The Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, together with the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), has met leaders and stakeholders from Kigezi sub-region at the Ministry’s headquarters in Mbuya in preparation for the forthcoming 45th Tarehe Sita Anniversary celebrations scheduled to take place in the region.

The anniversary will run under the theme, “Defending the gains of the revolution and honouring the sacrifice of the freedom fighters: A call to national unity, peace and socio-economic transformation.”

The Minister of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs, Hon. Huda Abason Oleru, said the decision to host the celebrations in Kigezi is rooted in the region’s historical contribution to Uganda’s liberation struggle.

“Kigezi played a critical role during the early stages of the struggle that led to the liberation of Uganda. The people here supported the revolutionaries even in the most difficult moments,” Hon. Oleru said.

“Some paid the ultimate price with their blood. Hosting Tarehe Sita here is a tribute to that sacrifice.”

She noted that districts in the region served as operational support bases for early liberation activities, with the support of notable figures such as the late Joseph Bitwari, the late James Karambuzi, the late David Kagoro Tangiri, the late Bishop Festo Kivengere, the late Bishop Barnabas Harem’Imana, and others.

Hon. Oleru emphasised that Tarehe Sita, marked every February 6 since 1981, symbolises the enduring bond between the army and the people.

“This celebration reminds us that the strength of the UPDF is deeply linked to the support of Ugandans,” she said.

“Each year, we conduct civic activities and Quick Impact Projects as a gesture of appreciation. We want the people of Kigezi to support and also take ownership of these projects because they are for their benefit.”

The Joint Staff Political Commissariat, Maj Gen Henry Masiko, encouraged leaders in the region to mobilise communities for active participation in the upcoming activities.

“We encourage our people to take advantage of the services that UPDF trans will provide in their districts,” Maj Gen Masiko said.

“We shall be engaging communities nationwide to strengthen the harmony between the army and the population, as guided by our mandate,” he added.

Activities planned for the Army Week include static and mobile medical camps, special optical services, and engineering works, among others.

The briefing was attended by Minister of ICT and National Guidance, Hon. Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, Hon. Mondo Kagonyera, Gen (Rtd) Kale Kayihura; Chief of Joint Staff Lt Gen Jack Bakasumba, senior UPDF officers, religious leaders, and political representatives from the Kigezi sub-region.