The northern district of Kitgum is making final preparations to host Uganda’s 61st Independence Day celebrations, which occur annually on October 9. This year’s theme for the independence anniversary is centered around the idea of “Sustaining a united and progressive nation: Taking charge of our future as a free nation.”
Kitgum, which was originally part of Acholi district at the time of Uganda’s independence six decades ago, has evolved and is now one of the seven districts in the Acholi sub-region. The district is getting ready to welcome this significant historical event, and for many, the fact that the public holiday falls on a Monday will provide an extended weekend reminiscent of Easter breaks.
Preparations for the celebration are in full swing, including rehearsals for the customary exhibition by security teams on Independence Day at the Kitgum District Farm Institute in Pandwong division. Additionally, the newly constructed Kitgum Main Market is set to be officially opened by President Yoweri Museveni as part of the celebrations.
President Museveni is also scheduled to address the nation on the eve of the anniversary, with a focus on the Independence Day theme and other national matters of importance.
The celebration will host numerous special guests, including high-profile foreign dignitaries. Among these guests, 41 individuals will receive medals in recognition of their distinguished roles in Uganda’s liberation and their contributions to the country’s development.
Milly Babalanda, the Minister in charge of the Presidency, provided a briefing to Parliament regarding the upcoming event. She mentioned that East African leaders are expected to grace the occasion, and she assured the public that those attending the celebrations at Kololo will not be required to undergo COVID-19 tests. Only special invited guests, who will be seated in close proximity to the President, will be subjected to COVID-19 testing.
Regarding this year’s theme, Minister Babalanda explained that it pays tribute to Uganda’s history and the individuals who played a pivotal role in sustaining the leadership, ideology, and momentum towards self-rule. She emphasized that the theme reflects the ideals of Uganda’s founding fathers, who envisioned a nation based on the principles of the rule of law, democracy, socio-economic transformation, and good governance.
