Uganda is today marking its 63rd Independence Anniversary at the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, with President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni presiding over the national celebrations as Chief Guest. The grand event has drawn thousands of citizens, dignitaries, diplomats, and cultural leaders from across the country.
A total of 23 distinguished Ugandans fifteen men and eight women will be honoured for their exceptional service and contribution to national development. The honours will be presented in three key categories: the Nalubaale Medal for political and civic leadership, the Luwero Triangle Medal for distinguished service during the liberation struggle, and the Golden Jubilee Medal for outstanding contributions to public service and patriotism.
Addressing journalists on the eve of the event, Minister for the Presidency, Milly Babalanda, confirmed that all arrangements had been finalized to ensure a smooth celebration.
“Twenty-three distinguished Ugandans fifteen men and eight women will be honoured for their exceptional service and contribution to the nation,” Babalanda said.
“Government is ready to ensure a peaceful, secure, and well-organized celebration as we mark 63 years of independence with pride,” she added.
Babalanda further reassured Ugandans that all security agencies, including the Uganda Police Force, UPDF, and intelligence organs, had coordinated efforts to guarantee the safety of all guests and citizens during the celebrations.
During the final parade inspection earlier this week, Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, revealed that the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds will now be the permanent home for Uganda’s Independence Day celebrations.
“The new parade drills we introduced last year have now been mastered through consistent training and teamwork,” Muhoozi said, commending the security forces for their “discipline, coordination, and professionalism.”
He clarified that while Independence Day will now be celebrated permanently at Kololo, other national days such as Liberation Day and Tarehe Sita will continue to rotate across the country to promote inclusivity and national unity.
This year’s celebration held under the theme “Sustaining Unity, Resilience, and Development for a Prosperous Uganda” features colourful military parades, cultural performances, brass band displays, and an air show by the Uganda People’s Defence Air Force.
As the festivities unfold, Minister Babalanda reminded Ugandans to uphold peace and unity during the celebrations.
The event marks 63 years since Uganda attained independence from Britain in 1962, and serves as a reflection on the country’s journey of progress, resilience, and shared national pride.
