(Masaka) – The 44th Tarehe Sita Anniversary celebrations will take place in the Greater Masaka region this February, highlighting the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces’ (UPDF) commitment to community partnership and Pan-African solidarity.
The Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Hon Jacob Oboth-Oboth, made the announcement during a meeting at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs headquarters in Mbuya. The theme for this year’s event, “Celebrating Pan-African Solidarity and the Peoples’ Sacrifice in Struggle for Freedom and Democracy for Socio-economic Transformation,” underscores the nation’s liberation history and its aspirations for socio-economic growth.
Hon Oboth-Oboth praised the Greater Masaka region for its ongoing collaboration with the UPDF, saying, “The people of Greater Masaka are lucky to host this year’s celebrations. This partnership reflects the government and UPDF’s shared commitment to give back to the community.”
The event will feature a week of activities leading up to the main celebration on February 6, 2025, in Kyotera District. These include school renovations, free medical services, and other community outreach programs. Hon Theodore Ssekikubo, MP for Lwemiyaga County, expressed pride in hosting the event, stating, “This is a moment of honor for Masaka to host the commemoration of the launch of Uganda’s liberation struggle.”
Maj Gen Jack Bakasumba, Chief of Joint Staff, highlighted the historical significance of Tarehe Sita. It marks the day in 1981 when the National Resistance Army (NRA) began its liberation struggle. He explained that Tarehe Sita symbolizes the bond between Uganda’s population and its armed forces, further cemented through activities during Defence Forces Week.
Masaka holds a significant place in Uganda’s liberation history, serving as a key location in the 1985–1986 armed struggle. This year’s celebrations will span several districts in the region, including Bukomansimbi, Kalangala, Kyotera, and Masaka City.
Tarehe Sita is rotated across regions each year, with the most recent hosts being Busoga and Mbarara. This year’s celebrations aim to reinforce the UPDF’s connection with the people and highlight the importance of collective sacrifice for freedom and democracy.
The announcement was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Members of Parliament, and local leaders from the Greater Masaka region.
| Event Details | Description |
|---|---|
| Theme | Celebrating Pan-African Solidarity and the Peoples’ Sacrifice |
| Date | February 6, 2025 |
| Main Venue | Kyotera District |
| Key Activities | School renovations, free medical services, community outreach |
| Significance | Commemorates the launch of NRA’s liberation struggle |
