Uganda will mark its 64th Independence Day on Friday, October 9, with national celebrations at State House Entebbe under the theme, “Embracing Our Sovereignty with Hope and Visionary Leadership.”
The main celebrations will be presided over by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, with the programme expected to include national ceremonies to commemorate Uganda’s attainment of independence from British colonial rule in 1962.
The celebrations have been scaled down, with the national event focusing on recognising 20 individuals who have contributed to peace and security in Uganda.
Uganda attained independence on October 9, 1962, ending its status as a British protectorate. The country has since marked Independence Day annually as a national public holiday.
The 64th anniversary comes amid renewed discussion about Uganda’s history and the events surrounding independence.
The Buganda Kingdom declared its independence on October 8, 1962, one day before Uganda attained independence from Britain. The anniversary has continued to feature in discussions about the historical relationship between Buganda and the Ugandan state.
Messages have also been issued celebrating Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II as Uganda marks the anniversary.
The national celebrations come against the backdrop of wider public discussions about the country’s political and socio-economic challenges, including employment, justice and the treatment of political activists.
Opposition leader Winnie Byanyima has called for charges against activists to be dropped, adding a political dimension to this year’s independence commemorations.
The independence anniversary therefore provides an occasion for both celebration of Uganda’s sovereignty and reflection on the country’s progress since 1962.
The government has continued to frame national development around sovereignty, economic transformation and self-reliance, while other voices have called for greater attention to employment opportunities, justice and civil liberties.
The 64th Independence Day celebrations will bring together government officials, members of the diplomatic community, cultural leaders and other invited guests to commemorate Uganda’s independence and reflect on the country’s journey since 1962.
