Kyotera, Uganda – February 6, 2025: The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has delivered a keynote address highlighting Uganda’s military achievements, national security, and the UPDF’s role in regional stability at the 44th Tarehe Sita Anniversary celebrations held at Kasana Township Grounds in Kyotera District.
Gen Kainerugaba underscored the significance of Tarehe Sita, describing it as a reminder of Uganda’s liberation struggle and a testament to the country’s progress.
“This day demonstrates how far we have come and where we aim to go as a country. Ours has been a journey of continuous growth, despite some challenges,” he stated.
The CDF also praised the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces commitment to peace and security, both domestically and across Africa, noting that: in the DRC, Operation Shujaa has significantly weakened the ADF rebel group, dismantling its bases and eliminating key commanders.
“In Somalia, the UPDF is playing a critical role in transitioning from ATMIS to AUSSOM, ensuring security gains achieved over 18 years are sustained. In Karamoja, relative calm has returned, with the UPDF making efforts to prevent the rearming of criminal groups,” he explained.
He further assured Ugandans that the security situation in the country remains stable, while warning that those attempting to disrupt peace would be dealt with firmly within the law.
Reaction to Supreme Court Ruling on Military Courts
Gen Kainerugaba also expressed concern over the recent Supreme Court ruling, which halted military trials.
He described it as “very unfortunate and quite unacceptable,” emphasising that the UPDF remains a pillar of Uganda’s democracy and socio-economic transformation.
UPDF’s Community Engagement and Pan-Africanism
Speaking at the event, the Joint Staff – Political Commissariat, Major General Henry Masiko, highlighted Tarehe Sita’s legacy in connecting the military with local communities through development projects.
“Each year, the UPDF moves to different regions to conduct community impact projects. This year, our troops engaged in cleaning public spaces, donating scholastic materials, and sensitizing communities on hygiene and health,” he said.
Deputy Defence Spokesperson, Col. Deo Akiiki, emphasised the UPDF’s role in Pan-Africanism and socio-economic transformation, noting that Uganda continues to strengthen diplomatic and security relationships across the region.
As the celebrations concluded, Ugandans reflected on 44 years of transformation, resilience, and national progress, with a commitment to sustaining peace and development in the years ahead.
Tarehe Sita celebrations brought together government ministers, military officials, and thousands of citizens to commemorate the day the National Resistance Army (NRA) launched its armed struggle in 1981. Several high-ranking officials, including Hon. Jacob Oboth Oboth, Hon. Balaam Ateenyi, and Hon. Kyeyune, attended the event.