Uganda celebrates 63rd Independence

Uganda celebrated its 63rd Independence Day at Kololo Independence Grounds, with the President, Vice President, and Libyan officials in attendance.

Uganda's 63rd Independence Day celebration was held at the Kololo Independence Grounds, presided over by the President. The event commenced with the President's arrival at 11:00 am, where he was received by the Speaker of Parliament and other government officials. Dignitaries in attendance included the Vice President and officials from Libya.

The ceremony featured a guard of honor inspection mounted by joint security forces, including the UPDF, Police, Prison, and the ASTU. The public was further entertained by a joint security parade inaugurated by the Commander of Defense Forces, Muhoozi Kainerugaba.

During his speech, the President outlined a vision for national progress. He pledged to boost the nation's economic growth to 7 per cent, a goal he linked to the promising oil sector, which he stated would inject 500 million dollars into the economy. He also emphasised the importance of economic and political integration within the East African community to foster markets and peace.

Acknowledging industrial growth, the President cited specific innovations, including a pharmaceutical factory under construction by scientist Dr Matthias Magoola and automotive engineering advances at Kira Motors. The speech also reflected on the nation's history, reminding citizens of the instability that characterised the past, during which over 800,000 people perished, a memory preserved in the 33 graveyards of Luweero. In a symbolic act of reconciliation, he presented a former rebel, Colonel Sam Monday, who shared his story of returning to the government.

The function culminated with the awarding of medals, and the President received congratulations from various attendees for the successful celebrations.