Kisoro, Uganda — Prime Minister of the Republic of Uganda, Rt Hon Robinah Nabbanja, has officially launched the 45th Tarehe Sita Anniversary celebrations in the Kigezi Sub-region, paying tribute to the area’s historic role in Uganda’s liberation struggle and the Front for National Salvation (FRONASA).
The Kigezi Sub-region, which comprises the districts of Rukiga, Rubanda, Rukungiri, Kanungu, Kabale and Kisoro, was a key base for FRONASA supporters during the struggle that led to the birth of the National Resistance Army (NRA). Among the notable figures remembered were the late Joseph Bitwari, James Karambuzi, David Kagoro Kangire, Bishop Festo Kivengere and Bishop Barnabas Hareimana.
Speaking at the Shaza Grounds in Kisoro District, the Prime Minister commended President and Commander-in-Chief of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), H.E Gen (Rtd) Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, for his visionary leadership in building a professional, disciplined, and people-centered army dedicated to protecting Uganda’s sovereignty.
“I commend the UPDF for its professionalism and dedication. I urge you to continue defending our country and supporting our communities,” Nabbanja said.
She reaffirmed government’s commitment to promoting peace, noting that development cannot thrive in the absence of security.
“Without peace, there can be no development. I thank UPDF for keeping us united and securing our borders,” she emphasized, adding that Tarehe Sita remains a solemn moment to honour the men and women who sacrificed their lives for a new Uganda.
The Prime Minister described Tarehe Sita as more than just a historical date, saying it symbolizes Pan-Africanism, patriotism, unity, and the partnership between the army and civilians in pursuit of peace and development.
This year’s celebrations are themed “Defending the Gains of the Revolution and Honouring the Sacrifices of the Freedom Fighters: A Call for National Unity, Peace, and Socio-Economic Transformation”, according to the Prime Minister highlights the importance of working together to transform our selves.
The Minister of State for Defence in charge of Veterans Affairs Hon Oleru Huda Abason also appreciated the contributions of Kigezi residents in liberating Uganda. “We thank the people of Kigezi for their bravery and support to the liberation struggle,” she remarked.
She also highlighted that UPDF remains committed to serving Uganda, promoting peace and social economic transformation of the masses.
