44th Tarehe Sita Commemorations.

The Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) has announced plans for the 44th Tarehe Sita celebrations, scheduled for February 6, 2025, in Kyotera District. The theme for this year's celebrations is "Celebrating Pan-African Solidarity and the People’s Sacrificial Struggle for Freedom, Democracy, and Socio-Economic Transformation."

Addressing the media at the Uganda Media Centre, the Chief of Political Commissariat, Maj Gen Henry Matsiko, called on residents of Greater Masaka to actively participate in the army week celebrations. He emphasized that the events are designed to strengthen the relationship between the army and civilians.

Background

Every 6th February, the UPDF commemorates Tarehe Sita, marking the day in 1981 when 41 soldiers led by Yoweri Museveni launched a successful guerilla war against the government of Milton Obote by attacking Kabamba Military Barracks.

Planned Activities

The celebrations include:

• Medical camps
• Community cleaning activities
• Remembering fallen comrades
• Wealth creation and mindset change programs

Key Remarks

Maj Gen Henry Matsiko, Chief of Political Commissariat, UPDF Joint Staff:

• Urged residents of Greater Masaka to participate in army week events to strengthen army-civilian relations.
• Provided a brief history of Tarehe Sita and its significance.
• Highlighted UPDF's achievements in restoring peace and stability, particularly in Masaka sub-region.

Brig Gen Cyrus Bekunda, Joint Staff Engineering:

• UPDF has contributed to Masaka's development through engineering projects.
• A total of 29 projects, including 15 schools, nine health centers, and two markets, have been implemented.
• These projects will be completed and handed over in time for the main celebrations.

The event is expected to bring together dignitaries, community members, and UPDF officers as they commemorate Uganda’s liberation history through meaningful development initiatives.