Heroes Day: Museveni Reflects on Liberation Struggle, Uganda's Future

President Yoweri Museveni has paid tribute to Ugandans who sacrificed their lives during the country's struggle for freedom, saying Heroes Day serves as a reminder of the cost paid to restore peace, democracy and stability.

In a message shared on X on June 9, 2026, Museveni reflected on the significance of Heroes Day and the events that led to the National Resistance Army (NRA) bush war.

“Fellow Ugandans, on this Heroes Day, we remember the immense sacrifices made by our people in the struggle for freedom. The 9th of June 1981 was chosen to represent the hundreds of thousands who were killed, especially in the Luweero Triangle. After the war, we collected skulls from 32 communal graves as a reminder of the atrocities our people endured,” Museveni said.

The President said Uganda faced serious political, economic and security challenges before the NRA launched its armed struggle.

“When we went to the bush, Uganda was facing a profound crisis. The economy had collapsed, governance had broken down, insecurity was rampant, and for 18 years, Ugandans had been denied the opportunity to freely elect their leaders. Our objectives were therefore clear: restore democracy, guarantee security, expand and diversify the economy, and rebuild the country,” he said.

Museveni thanked both civilian and armed veterans who participated in the struggle and contributed to achieving those objectives.

“I thank the civilian and armed veterans who joined us in this struggle and helped achieve these goals. I also salute the families of those heroes who are no longer with us,” he said.

The President said Uganda's next challenge is to transform the economy and ensure that more households participate in income-generating activities.

“The challenge before us now is economic transformation and ensuring that every household joins the money economy,” he said.

Uganda marks Heroes Day every June 9 to honour individuals who made significant sacrifices in the struggle for freedom, peace and national development. The day commemorates the contribution of those who fought during different periods of the country's history and recognises citizens who have rendered exceptional service to the nation.