Lira, Uganda – The UPDF 5th Division team, under the leadership of Col. David Opeero, Deputy 5th Division Commander, engaged a number of UPDF personnel in cleaning various locations within Lira City on Tuesday, February 4, 2025.
These locations included the bus park and Lira Main Market, demonstrating their solidarity and commitment to keeping the city clean.
“We are here in Lira and other areas under the 5th Division’s responsibility, conducting cleanliness drives in Lira District, Lira City, Patongo, Kalongo, and Pader Town Council. Other areas include Kitgum and Abim Districts,” said Col. David Opeero.
He noted, “One of the achievements is the political stability, where democracy has been restored, with elections conducted every five years. Our society enjoys a secure environment where peaceful life prevails.”
Captain Edwin Mawanda, the 5th Division Public Information Officer, stated that the 44th Tarehe Sita celebrations will be held in Greater Masaka on February 6, 2025. He explained that the cleaning activities are a way of giving back to the people and commemorating the day H.E. the President of the Republic of Uganda joined the struggle.
On Wednesday, February 5, 2025, the Acting 5th Division Commander, Maj. Gen. Keith Katungi, will be in Lira City supervising the cleaning of Lira Regional Referral Hospital and other areas.
Col. Opeero told the media that the five-year war brought Uganda to a new level of success, as people now embrace technology, including the internet. He added, “Remember, we will soon be launching the standard gauge railway.”
The activities will take place in Lira District, Lira City, Patongo Town in Agago District, Abim District, Kitgum, and Pader District, among others, with various activities planned to honor the day.
This year’s 44th Tarehe Sita Anniversary celebrations will be held under the theme, “Celebrating Pan-African Solidarity and the Peoples’ Sacrifice in Struggle for Freedom and Democracy for Socio-economic Transformation.”
Speaking to the media from Lira Main Market, Public Information Officer Capt. Mawanda expressed gratitude to the people of Masaka for their strategic partnership with the UPDF.
“I want to congratulate the leaders of Lira City for cooperating with us during this exercise,” said Mawanda.
Santa Akello, a produce seller in Lira, commended the UPDF for their wonderful work, which has made the market’s hygiene conducive for customers.
