The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has urged Ugandans—especially those from the Kigezi sub-region—to stand together with the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) as the country prepares to commemorate the 45th Tarehe Sita Anniversary and Defence Forces Week.
Sharing the CDF’s message during a briefing at the Uganda Media Centre, the UPDF Joint Staff Political Commissar, Major General Henry Masiko, revealed that this year’s Defence Forces Week activities will take place earlier than usual to avoid clashing with the national election schedule.
Gen. Muhoozi, who also serves as Senior Presidential Advisor on Special Operations, highlighted Kigezi’s crucial role in Uganda’s liberation history, noting its contribution to the early Front for National Salvation (FRONASA) operations that later evolved into the National Resistance Army (NRA) and ultimately the UPDF.
He acknowledged that the sub-region was home to several prominent figures who supported the struggle, including Rt Hon Ruhakana Rugunda, Rt Hon Amama Mbabazi, the late Joseph Bitwari, late James Karambuzi, late David Kagoro Kangire, and late Bishop Festo Kivengere, among others.
“The people of Kigezi stood by the revolutionaries during some of the most trying moments of the 1970s and, in many cases, paid the ultimate price,” Gen. Muhoozi’s message read.
He praised the region’s continued loyalty and commitment since those early days, saying that their sacrifices and patriotism remain the foundation of the peace and stability the nation enjoys today.
Reaffirming the UPDF’s long-standing tradition, the CDF noted that activities marking Defence Forces Week 2026 will celebrate the deep connection between the army and the citizens it protects.
“These events remind us of the people’s steadfast support, which empowered the NRA/UPDF to achieve victory after victory—overthrowing oppressive regimes and paving the way for national peace and progress,” he stated.
The week-long engagements will take place across the six districts of Kabale, Kisoro, Rukungiri, Rukiga, Rubanda, and Kanungu. Planned community projects include quick-impact construction works, free medical and surgical camps, donation of scholastic materials, women empowerment initiatives, and a range of civil-military cooperation (CIMIC) programs.
Brigadier General Michael Kibuye, Director of Civil-Military Cooperation, explained that the commemorations will highlight Kigezi’s historical significance while promoting collaboration between government agencies, private sector partners, the media, and local leadership. Community events will feature clean-up drives, environmental conservation activities, traditional performances, sports contests, and support to schools.
Colonel Dr Francis Xavier Bakehena, Head of Public Health in the UPDF, announced that free health and surgical services will be offered at two locations in each district.
Meanwhile, Major Engineer Albert Mukama, Operations and Training Officer of the Engineers Brigade, detailed upcoming infrastructure works across the region—nine classroom blocks, five staff houses, six sanitation units, a maternity ward, bridges, market shelters, and selected road upgrades—all expected to be completed by 6 January 2026.
The 45th Tarehe Sita celebrations will run under the theme “Defending the Gains of the Revolution and Honouring the Sacrifices of the Freedom Fighters: A Call for National Unity, Peace, and Socio-Economic Transformation.”
