President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni led Uganda’s 63rd Independence Day celebrations at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds on Thursday 9th, 2025, calling for unity, hard work, and renewed commitment to national progress. The celebrations, held under the theme “63 Years of Independence: A Reason to Double Our Efforts in Sustaining a United and Progressive Nation,” drew dignitaries, members of the diplomatic corps, and thousands of Ugandans.
The event was marked by colourful parades from the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), Uganda Police, and other security agencies. President Museveni inspected the Guard of Honour before addressing the nation, recalling Uganda’s journey from colonial rule to recovery under the National Resistance Movement (NRM).
“Between 1971 and 1986, about 800,000 Ugandans were killed extrajudicially. The Luweero Triangle, with over 33 mass graves, reminds us of that dark chapter,” Museveni said. “From that turmoil, the NRM emerged to liberate the country and restore peace.”
He emphasized that peace and security have been the foundation for Uganda’s economic recovery and development, noting that the economy continues to grow steadily. “By June 2026, Uganda’s economy is projected to reach USD 66.9 billion, with a forecast of 7% growth the following year,” he revealed.
Reflecting on Uganda’s early post-independence struggles, Museveni said, “By the 10th anniversary, Uganda was under a vicious dictatorship. The small enclave economy had collapsed, and the country was marked by rampant smuggling, black market trade, and speculation.”
The President also welcomed back Col. Samson Mande, a former UPDF officer who had fled into exile years ago. “I am happy to welcome back Col. Samson Mande, who had fled on account of some internal intrigue,” Museveni announced to applause.
In response, Col. Mande, visibly emotional, saluted the army and the nation. “My commander, the CDF, brothers and sisters of the UPDF, I am back home,” he said. “NRM was born by us. It’s in me, and it will remain in me until death puts us asunder.”
The Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, congratulated the parade team for a “brilliant” display of discipline and coordination, led by parade commander Col. Adnan Kaale. “Happy Independence Day to you all,” Gen. Muhoozi said in his Independence message.
During the ceremony, President Museveni also awarded gold, silver, and bronze medals to distinguished citizens in recognition of their outstanding service and contributions to the nation.
As Uganda marked 63 years of independence, the celebrations served as both a reflection on the country’s turbulent past and a reaffirmation of its steady march toward peace, prosperity, and national unity.
