KAMPALA– President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni will award medals to 50 distinguished Ugandans during the country’s 36th National Heroes Day celebrations, scheduled for June 9, 2025.
This year’s national event will be held at Lyantonde Technical Institute, located in Kaaliro Town Council, Lyantonde District, under the theme: “The Legacy and Ideals of Our Heroes: A Memorable Inspiration.”
Addressing journalists during a briefing at the Uganda Media Centre today (June 4, 2025), the Minister for the Presidency, Milly Babalanda, said the day commemorates the courage, sacrifice, and patriotism of individuals who have shaped Uganda’s identity through their exceptional service and dedication.
“From resisting colonial oppression to advancing development in post-independence Uganda, our national heroes have left an indelible mark on this nation’s journey,” Babalanda said.
Why Lyantonde
Lyantonde District was selected to host the 2025 celebrations in recognition of its historic role during the 1981–1986 liberation struggle.
The area served as a critical corridor for recruiting fighters and providing logistical support to the National Resistance Army (NRA) during the Bush War.
Babalanda acknowledged the sacrifices made by both combatants and civilians from Lyantonde, including notable figures such as the late Lt. Gen. Pecos Kutesa, Brig. Gen. Eugene Sebugwawo (Rtd), and Maj. Joel Babumba, among others.
She also paid tribute to the many unnamed civilians who offered moral, material, and financial support to the liberation cause.
She noted that ‘these citizens’, both armed and unarmed, played a crucial role in Uganda’s fight for liberation and deserve to be remembered.
The 50 medal recipients will be honoured across different categories for their contributions to Uganda’s political, social, and economic transformation.
Babalanda emphasized that to be recognized as a national hero, one must exhibit bravery, sacrifice, and exceptional service to the country.
Heroes Day not only honours individuals but also educates future generations about the country’s shared history and values.
She stressed the broader significance of Heroes Day in fostering patriotism, national unity, and resilience, especially among young Ugandans.
In the run-up to the celebrations, the Office of the Prime Minister and the Ministry of Health conducted a medical outreach camp from May 28–30, at Lyantonde Technical Institute, offering health services to the local community.
The Minister also paid tribute to President Museveni, describing him as a lifelong freedom fighter who led efforts to oust past dictatorships and establish modern Uganda.
“Today we salute Gen. Museveni, who dedicated his entire adult life to the liberation of this nation. From confronting Idi Amin’s regime to leading the NRA struggle, his contributions are central to our national story,” Babalanda said.
She highlighted Uganda’s current achievements, including peace and stability, the hosting of nearly two million refugees, and attaining lower-middle-income status.
She said with anticipated oil revenues expected from 2026, she expressed optimism about Uganda’s continued transformation into a modern and prosperous state.
