Museveni urges Ugandans to embrace the money economy at Tarehe Sita

7 February 2025, 10:53 am

By Ronald Ssemagonja, Kyotera

Following the victory on 6th February 1981, the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) has been commemorating this day across various parts of the country. Tarehe Sita was established to celebrate the founding of a people’s army. It symbolises and honours the efforts of the founding fathers of the people’s revolution for freedom and democracy in Uganda. Every 6th February, starting from 1981, the army and the people of Uganda unite during the Defence Forces Week to engage in activities and celebrations aimed at strengthening the strategic relationship between the population and the defence forces.

The main celebrant was the President of the Republic of Uganda, Yoweri Museveni, who, in his speech, encouraged the people to embrace the money economy by shifting from subsistence production to commercial farming.

The Tarehe Sita celebrations were held at Kasasa Grounds in Kyotera district under the theme, “Celebrating Pan-African Solidarity and the People’s Sacrifices in the Struggle for Freedom and Democracy for Socio-Economic Transformation.” Speaking to the general public, the Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, thanked the President and all those who participated in the liberation, which has led to the peace the country is now enjoying. “We thank all who participated in liberating our country, and we promise to continue protecting what was fought for. The situation in Karamoja is improving, and we are ready to expand the UPDF,” Muhoozi said.

The CDF continued by stating that the achievements would not have been possible without the discipline of the forces. He also promised to engage with the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs to amend the constitution. This follows the Supreme Court ruling that civilians should not be tried in the General Court Martial. “Last week, we were shocked to receive the judgement. We are working with the ministry to make amendments. We are addressing the issue of enumeration,” he added.

It is worth noting that the UPDF has established a cyber security unit to detect, prevent, and curtail acts of cyber-crime. The Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs has also partnered with the Government of India to establish a National Forensic Sciences University in Uganda. The Fisheries Protection Operations have curbed illegal fishing and the smuggling of immature fish, particularly on Lake Victoria and Lake Albert.

In Masaka Region, which was once notorious for violent acts orchestrated by organised groups such as the Bijambiya (panga-wielding men), the UPDF has helped restore order and calm. During Tarehe Sita week, the UPDF engaged in activities such as cleaning various places, constructing classroom blocks, and carrying out health camps, benefiting many in the region. Forty-one people were awarded medals, including four women. Among the awardees was Maj Gen. Felix Kulaigye, among others.