KAMPALA — The State Minister for Youth and Children Affairs, Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi, has petitioned the 11th Parliament of Uganda to consider declaring April 24 a national public holiday dedicated to honouring what he described as “modern-day, post-revolution patriots.”
Barugahara said Uganda’s current national calendar largely celebrates historical figures, leaving out individuals who continue to play active roles in shaping the country’s present and future.
“We need a day that recognises those who are still serving this country in real time—people who are contributing to security, governance, and development today,” he said.
He argued that the proposed commemoration would help institutionalise appreciation for contemporary service and national sacrifice, adding that it could be implemented in a cost-effective manner.
“This does not have to be expensive. We can have a simple, structured observance at State House, and broadcast it live so that Ugandans across the country can participate,” he said.
Barugahara emphasised that the initiative would not replace existing national holidays such as Heroes Day, but would instead complement them by focusing on present-day contributions.
“Heroes Day celebrates our past. This one would focus on the present—those who are actively building and protecting Uganda today,” he noted.
In his appeal, the minister cited global examples where countries commemorate service and sacrifice through designated national days. He mentioned Memorial Day in the United States, Remembrance Day in the United Kingdom, Volkstrauertag in Germany, and Yom HaZikaron in Israel as illustrations of structured national remembrance.
Barugahara also pointed to leadership figures within Uganda’s current system as embodying the spirit of modern patriotism.
He referenced Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba as an example of contemporary service, saying such individuals represent a generation that continues to contribute to national stability and continuity.
“These are people whose work is ongoing. Their contribution should not only be recognised informally but also reflected in our national observances,” he said.
The proposal comes at a time when the current Parliament is approaching the end of its term, with lawmakers expected to consider a range of policy and symbolic initiatives that may shape Uganda’s national identity.
If approved, April 24 would be added to Uganda’s list of official public holidays, marking a new national observance focused on living contributors to state service and development.
