KABALE: President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has unveiled a monument in Kabale Municipality in honor of fallen National Resistance Army/Movement (NRA/M) liberation war heroes from the Kigezi sub-region and other parts of the country who were executed by Idi Amin’s regime in the early stages of Uganda’s liberation struggle on February 10, 1973.
Speaking during the 45th Tarehe Sita anniversary celebrations held at the National Teachers’ College (NTC) Grounds in Kabale Municipality, President Museveni said the commemoration is anchored in the sacrifices made by Ugandans who were killed during Idi Amin’s atrocities in areas such as Mbarara, Fort Portal, Kampala, Jinja, Mbale, and Gulu.
The celebrations were held under the theme: “Defending the gains of the Revolution and honoring the sacrifice of the freedom fighters: A call for National Unity, peace and socioeconomic transformation.”
The President commended the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) for safeguarding peace before, during, and after the recent general elections. He revealed that there were unscrupulous individuals who attempted to destabilize the country, but security agencies acted swiftly to neutralize the threats.
“The UPDF did a commendable job in stopping plans by troublemakers and ensuring a peaceful post-election period, which has sustained a stable environment for business and national development,” President Museveni said.
Airport and Infrastructure Development
President Museveni announced plans to construct two additional international airports to serve the Kigezi and Ankole sub-regions. He revealed that an international airport will be established in Kabale District to boost tourism, while another will be built in Mbarara City to support trade and business. According to the President, the Mbarara airport will be larger than Entebbe International Airport.
He also confirmed plans to upgrade Kisoro Airport to international status, noting that the expansion will significantly improve the movement of goods and services and enhance tourism in the region.
The President further disclosed that Kigezi sub-region is earmarked for massive tourism-related development, including the construction of additional tarmac roads, similar to infrastructure upgrades undertaken in other parts of the country.
Agriculture, Mining, and Agro-Processing
President Museveni urged residents of Kigezi to embrace modern agricultural practices by adopting the use of fertilizers, irrigation, and high-value crops to increase productivity. He said government plans are underway to support farmers with fertilizers and irrigation equipment, particularly targeting small-scale landowners.
He also made an urgent call for land acquisition in Rubanda District to pave the way for the establishment of a large iron ore processing factory. The President noted that Kigezi sub-region has high concentrations of iron ore and emphasized the need for quick identification of land to allow investors to commence operations, which will generate income for local communities.
In addition, President Museveni revealed plans to scale up investments in agro-processing and fish farming in Kigezi, highlighting the strong returns associated with both sectors.
CDF Applauds Peaceful Elections
Meanwhile, the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Senior Presidential Advisor on Special Operations, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, described the 2026 general elections as the most peaceful in Uganda’s history. He congratulated Ugandans and President-elect Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on the successful electoral process.
Gen Kainerugaba noted that Uganda’s democratic journey continues to strengthen, as citizens freely choose their leaders. He pledged the UPDF’s continued commitment to safeguarding peace, stability, and the country’s development gains.
He also applauded all security agencies for their continued role in maintaining national stability and challenged Ugandans to utilize the prevailing peace for socioeconomic transformation, warning individuals intent on causing chaos that security forces remain vigilant.
The Tarehe Sita celebrations were attended by ministers, Members of Parliament, senior UPDF officers, and local leaders from across the country.
