Museveni happy to see Rwandan military delegation at Tarehe Sita celebration

Rwanda sent in a military delegation led by Gen Mubarak Muganga, the Chief of Defense Staff of the Rwanda Defense Forces, marking a significant shift from the heightened tensions five years prior when Rwanda closed its border with Uganda.

During the event in Bugweri, President Museveni acknowledged the efforts of these delegations in collaborating with Uganda to tackle regional security issues.

Delegations from Kenya, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Tanzania, Somalia, Algeria, Burundi, Namibia, and the DRC were also present, with Kenya's delegation headed by Lt. Gen Njiru Peter Mbogo.

Museveni praised the cooperative spirit among the regional forces, emphasizing the need for a collective approach to address the security challenges that have become regional in nature, citing terrorism threats in countries like Somalia, the DRC, the Central African Republic, South Sudan, and Mozambique.

He highlighted the importance of partnerships with countries such as Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, Somalia, Burundi, and the DRC in moving towards regional solutions.

Museveni also lauded the UPDF and its affiliated security agencies for their professionalism and educational standards, contrasting them with the armies of previous eras, such as those under Idi Amin and colonial rule, which he noted were comprised largely of uneducated soldiers.

The president underscored the transformation within the Ugandan military to include educated individuals, facilitating the rapid development of a formidable force.

Tarehe Sita, celebrated every February 6th, is an important national event in Uganda, commemorating the establishment of the Uganda People's Defence Force (UPDF), initially known as the National Resistance Army (NRA).

It marks the beginning of Museveni's guerrilla warfare against Milton Obote's government, leading to Museveni's rise to power in January 1986.

The celebration reflects on the NRA's sacrifices during the bush war and the UPDF's ongoing role in maintaining peace and stability in Uganda and participating in regional peacekeeping efforts. The day is filled with activities that highlight the military's dedication to national development and its strong bond with the Ugandan populace.