President Yoweri Museveni and First Lady Janet Museveni on Tuesday presided over the 15th Annual Tarehe Sita Thanksgiving Breakfast at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MODVA) and Uganda People's Defence Force (UPDF) Headquarters in Mbuya.

The event, attended by senior army officers, soldiers, their families and invited guests, marked 45 years since the February 6, 1981 attack on Kabamba that led to the formation of the National Resistance Army (NRA), the precursor to today’s UPDF.

Held under the theme drawn from Joshua 1:8, “Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; then you will be prosperous and successful”, the thanksgiving gathering focused on reflection, faith and remembrance of those who participated in the liberation struggle.

Museveni Reflects on Resistance History

In his address, President Museveni congratulated Ugandans on marking 45 years since the resistance began at Kabamba. In a message shared, he noted that while prayer is important, success comes through hard work and faith in God.

He also thanked the Chief of Defence Forces, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, for highlighting the historical role of the NRA and reminding the country of the sacrifices made during the struggle. The President revealed that land has been secured for the construction of a museum intended to preserve the history of the resistance for future generations.

Calls for Discipline and Unity

The Guest Speaker, retired Archbishop Henry Luke Orombi, delivered the keynote message, emphasizing spiritual reflection and national unity.

Lt. Gen. Sam Kavuma underscored the importance of discipline and maintaining strong relations with local communities, noting that these principles have contributed to the effectiveness of UPDF missions, including operations in Somalia.

Defence Minister Highlights Milestones

The Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Jacob Oboth-Oboth, said the thanksgiving comes at a time when Uganda is marking several milestones, including the 40th anniversary of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government and the 45th anniversary of Tarehe Sita.

He said the UPDF continues to uphold values established during the liberation struggle, including patriotism, Pan-Africanism, courage, self-sacrifice and faith in God. Oboth added that the gathering was also an opportunity to give thanks for peace, unity and socio-economic progress.

Commemorating Tarehe Sita

Tarehe Sita, observed annually on February 6, commemorates the attack on Kabamba in 1981, an event widely regarded as the starting point of the armed struggle that eventually brought the NRM to power.

This year’s 15th Thanksgiving at the Defence and UPDF Headquarters in Mbuya served as a moment of remembrance for those who took part in the struggle, while reaffirming the institution’s role in national security and regional peacekeeping efforts.