Babalanda Unveils Plans for Uganda’s 64th Independence Day Celebrations, 20 to Receive National Honours

Uganda will on Friday, October 9, 2026, commemorate its 64th Independence Day Anniversary with national celebrations to be held at State House, Entebbe, under the theme “Embracing our Sovereignty with Hope and Visionary Leadership.”

Minister in charge of the Presidency, Hon. Milly Babalanda, said the celebrations are being organised to honour the sacrifices of Uganda’s independence heroes and heroines while providing an opportunity for Ugandans to reflect on the country’s journey since attaining self-rule in 1962.

Babalanda made the remarks while briefing the nation at the Uganda Media Centre on preparations for the anniversary, saying President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni is expected to officiate at the national celebrations.

According to the Minister, the theme recognises the sacrifices made by Uganda’s patriots in the struggle for freedom and emphasises the importance of sovereignty, national unity, patriotism and visionary leadership in shaping the country’s future.

Independence Day is a gazetted public holiday observed every October 9 to commemorate Uganda’s attainment of Independence from British colonial rule in 1962.

Babalanda said the occasion should not only be viewed as a celebration but also as a moment for Ugandans to reflect on the historical struggles that preceded Independence, acknowledge the achievements registered over the years and renew their commitment to building a peaceful, prosperous and sovereign nation.

Independence achieved through sacrifice

The Minister emphasised that Uganda’s Independence was not achieved “on a silver plate,” but followed years of resistance, political mobilisation and sacrifice by Ugandans who challenged colonial domination.

She cited Omukama Kabalega of Bunyoro among the early resisters, noting his resistance to attempts to annex Bunyoro to Egypt in 1872.

Kabaka Mwanga of Buganda was also highlighted for his resistance to colonial expansion, including the Battle of Kabuwoko in Buddu in 1897.

According to Babalanda, the struggle for greater African participation in governance was later advanced by political actors including Semakula Mulumba, Maindi, Miti and James Kivu.

The establishment of Bataka Bwa Buganda in the late 1940s and the formation of the Uganda National Congress (UNC) in 1952 under the leadership of Ignatius Musazi further strengthened political mobilisation among Africans.

These developments contributed to increased African participation in the governance of the country, including the expansion of the Legislative Council (LEGCO) in 1950 and 1958.

Babalanda also pointed to the return of the Kabaka of Buganda from exile in 1955 and the subsequent Namirembe Agreement as important milestones in Uganda’s journey towards self-government.

She said the 64th Independence Anniversary therefore provides an opportunity to remember the individuals and movements that contributed to the country’s liberation while drawing lessons from Uganda’s history as the country looks towards the future.

Celebrations to be largely virtual

This year’s national celebrations will be conducted under prevailing government arrangements, with only a limited number of invited guests expected to physically attend the main event at State House, Entebbe.

Babalanda said at least 30 VVIPs and a few religious leaders will attend the celebrations physically, while the rest of the country will participate virtually.

Ugandans across the country will follow the proceedings and President Museveni’s Independence Day message through the Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC) and other national broadcasters.

The arrangement comes against the background of a Cabinet decision taken during the 8th Special Meeting held on March 19, 2026.

Under Minute 59 (CT 2026) 5(8), Cabinet directed that celebrations of National and International Days be temporarily suspended with effect from the 2026/2027 Financial Year, with funds previously allocated to such activities to be redirected towards other pressing government priorities.

However, Babalanda clarified that the 64th Independence Day Anniversary will proceed and will be funded by State House in accordance with the prevailing government arrangements.

National Organising Committee coordinates preparations

Preparations for the celebrations are being coordinated by the National Organising Committee (NOC) under the Office of the President through various sub-committees.

As part of the preparations, national thanksgiving prayers were held across the country ahead of the anniversary.

Babalanda said prayers were conducted in all mosques on Friday, October 2, in all Seventh Day Adventist churches on Saturday, October 3, and in other churches on Sunday, October 4, 2026.

She expressed appreciation to Ugandans who participated in the thanksgiving activities.

Nationwide mobilisation underway

Publicity and mobilisation activities have also been intensified ahead of the celebrations.

The activities include national and district-level television and radio talk shows, social media campaigns coordinated through the Uganda Media Centre, syndicated print articles and mobilisation by Resident District Commissioners (RDCs) and Resident City Commissioners (RCCs) through local radio stations.

The celebrations will also receive live television coverage from UBC and selected private television and radio stations, allowing Ugandans who will not be physically present at State House to follow the national event.

Tight security arrangements

Comprehensive security arrangements have been put in place to ensure the smooth and peaceful conduct of the celebrations.

The Special Forces Command (SFC) will take overall responsibility for security at State House, Entebbe, while the Uganda Police Force (UPF) will provide security along routes and within the Kampala Metropolitan Area.

The UPF will be supported by the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), Internal Security Organisation (ISO) and External Security Organisation (ESO).

The security agencies are expected to coordinate their operations to ensure the safety of invited dignitaries, participants and the wider public during the Independence celebrations.

20 Ugandans to receive national honours

A key highlight of this year’s celebrations will be the conferment of National Honours and Awards upon 20 outstanding Ugandans.

President Museveni is expected to recognise the awardees for their contribution to the country in various categories.

The awards are intended to acknowledge Ugandans whose service and contribution have had a significant impact on the nation and to encourage a culture of patriotism, service and national responsibility.

Call for reflection and renewed commitment

Babalanda said the 64th Independence Anniversary should provide an opportunity for Ugandans to honour the country’s heroes and heroines, strengthen national unity and patriotism, and promote a stronger sense of national identity.

She also said the anniversary should be used to increase public awareness of government programmes and encourage citizens to reflect on Uganda’s achievements and challenges since Independence.

The Minister called upon Ugandans to participate meaningfully in the celebrations and use the occasion to reflect on the country’s historical journey and renew their commitment to building a peaceful, prosperous and sovereign Uganda.

“As Uganda marks 64 years of Independence, the celebrations are expected to bring together citizens in reflection on the sacrifices of the past, appreciation of achievements made and a renewed commitment to shaping a better future for generations to come.”

The 64th Independence Day Anniversary will therefore combine historical remembrance, national thanksgiving and reflection on Uganda’s future, with the theme “Embracing our Sovereignty with Hope and Visionary Leadership” providing the central message for the 2026 celebrations.

For God and My Country.