Kigezi to Host 45th Tarehe Sita Celebrations as UPDF Honors Region’s Liberation Legacy
By Kyeyune Ali | Kampala
The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has dispatched teams to the Kigezi sub-region to begin preparations for the 45th Tarehe Sita Anniversary celebrations, which will be held across the six districts of Greater Kigezi—Kisoro, Kabale, Rubanda, Kanungu, Rukungiri, and Rukiga.
Speaking at the Uganda Media Centre in Kampala, the Joint Staff – Political Commissariat, Maj Gen Henry Masiko, who also serves as the focal person for the 45th Tarehe Sita, said the UPDF leadership chose Kigezi in recognition of its pivotal role in Uganda’s liberation struggle.
“Kigezi was one of the key areas that contributed significantly to Uganda’s liberation from bad governance. It served as a recruitment base for the Front for National Salvation (FRONASA), which fought to overthrow Idi Amin’s regime,” Maj Gen Masiko explained.
Tarehe Sita, celebrated every February 6, marks the founding of the National Resistance Army (NRA), now the UPDF. The annual commemoration focuses on community welfare and strengthening civil-military relations through activities such as medical camps, engineering works, and social engagements.
“We celebrate Tarehe Sita annually with the population as part of our corporate social responsibility. We don’t replace district service delivery but share our birthday gift with the people,” Maj Gen Masiko said, noting that this year’s preparations will start earlier than usual to accommodate the upcoming general elections.
The planned activities will include short-term infrastructure projects, medical outreaches, patriotism sessions, friendly sports games, and veteran support engagements aimed at fostering unity and improving livelihoods.
Regional Leaders Welcome UPDF Initiative
The Resident District Commissioner for Kisoro, Hajji Badru Sebyara, commended the UPDF for maintaining its pro-people approach and ideological consciousness.
“Tarehe Sita activities strengthen cooperation between the UPDF and the population, reinforcing peace and stability in the country,” he noted.
Bufumbira South MP Hon. Alex Niyonsaba also welcomed the announcement, saying Kigezi is ready to host the national event thanks to its strong hospitality industry and welcoming communities.
Two reconnaissance teams from the UPDF have already begun field engagements in the sub-region. Maj Gen Henry Masiko is leading activities in Kisoro, Kabale, and Rubanda, while Maj Gen Paul Muhanguzi, Commander of the 2nd Division, is overseeing operations in Kanungu, Rukungiri, and Rukiga.
Honoring a Historic Contribution
The Minister of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs, Hon. Huda Abason Oleru, emphasized that hosting the celebrations in Kigezi pays tribute to the region’s historical role in Uganda’s liberation.
“Kigezi played a critical role during the early stages of the struggle that led to Uganda’s liberation. The people here supported the revolutionaries even in the most difficult moments—some paid the ultimate price with their blood,” she said. “Hosting Tarehe Sita here is a tribute to that sacrifice.”
This year’s Tarehe Sita celebrations will run under the theme:
“Defending the gains of the revolution and honouring the sacrifice of the freedom fighters: A call to national unity, peace and socio-economic transformation.”
The commemoration reaffirms the UPDF’s enduring commitment to serve the people beyond the battlefield—promoting patriotism, development, and national cohesion through service and remembrance.