Busia District is preparing to host Uganda’s 62nd Independence Day celebrations on October 9, 2024. The event will take place at Busikho PTC grounds in Masafu Town Council, marking the first time Busia has hosted a national event of this size. The celebrations are set under the theme “A Recommitment to Secure and Fortify Our Destiny,” drawing excitement and attention from locals and visitors alike.
Residents of Busia are eagerly anticipating the historic occasion, which is expected to attract thousands of attendees from different parts of Uganda and beyond. The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) have been conducting rehearsals at Busikho Primary School, further heightening the local enthusiasm. These rehearsals have drawn large crowds, eager to witness the military’s preparations.
For many in the district, this event marks a significant moment. Christian Ajambo, a resident of Busikho, expressed her excitement, noting that this is the first time such an event has taken place in their district. “We have only seen these events on TV from Kololo,” Ajambo said, highlighting the significance of having the celebration so close to home.
Local businesses in Busia are also reaping the benefits of the upcoming festivities. Traders have already started setting up stalls around Busikho in anticipation of the crowds expected to flock to the event. Innocent Wasike, a vendor at Busikho trading center, shared that business is booming in the lead-up to the celebration. “We are making sales like never before,” he said, pointing to the increased demand as visitors start arriving in the district.
Security remains a top priority as preparations continue. Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Hajira Namagogwe assured both residents and visitors that comprehensive security measures are in place to ensure the event runs smoothly. “We have deployed to protect our visitors and secure the venue,” Namagogwe stated, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace and order throughout the celebrations.
Local leaders are expressing their pride in Busia’s role as host for this year’s Independence Day event. Denis Nyangweso, the Member of Parliament for Samia Bugwe Central, highlighted the district’s recent development achievements, including improved infrastructure such as better roads, rural electrification, and access to clean water. These accomplishments, according to Nyangweso, are reason enough to celebrate Busia’s place in Uganda’s growth.
