President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has attributed the Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF)'s success to its commitment to a just cause aimed at transforming Uganda.
Speaking at the 14th Annual Tarehe Sita Thanksgiving Service at the UPDF headquarters in Mbuya, Kampala, Museveni emphasized the army’s Pan-Africanist mission, which prioritizes prosperity for all and strategic security for Uganda and Africa.
“UPDF has succeeded because we were fighting for a just cause (kulwanira amazima),” Museveni said. “A just cause is in our mission of prosperity for all, strategic security, and using the brotherhood of our people.”
The Commander-in-Chief, who attended the event with First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni, underscored that socio-economic transformation remains central to the UPDF’s evolution.
He urged officers to serve diligently in all positions, regardless of rank.
“So when you are somewhere, God has put you there. If you are a secretary in the office or a storekeeper, do the work very well,” Museveni advised.
He warned against tribalism and religious sectarianism, calling them obstacles to national unity and prosperity.
“The people who tell you about the sectarianism of tribes and religion are your enemies. Love Uganda because you need it for your prosperity. Love Africa because you need it for your own prosperity,” he said.
Reflecting on the NRM's liberation struggle, Museveni credited divine intervention for their ultimate victory, recalling the 1981 attack on Kabamba Military Barracks.
“When we attacked Kabamba the first time, we did not succeed completely. But later, I started thinking that it was God who did not allow us to capture those guns that day,” he narrated.
On her part, Maama Janet Museveni praised the UPDF’s transformation from a guerrilla force into a disciplined and professional army.
“They didn’t have much, but they had the most important things. Heavenly Father, help our gallant UPDF officers to continue to fear You, to rule justly and in righteousness because this is the secret of their success as an army,” she said.
She lauded the UPDF’s role in peacekeeping missions across the region.
“As Ugandans, we have been very proud of the UPDF. Wherever you have sent them—South Sudan, Somalia, the Central African Republic, and beyond—peace and stability have followed,” she noted.
Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Jacob Marksons Oboth Oboth, welcomed President Museveni and the First Lady, expressing gratitude for the government’s continued support.
“We've seen enhancements in the salaries of our officers. Your vision is to see that the officers get better. We may not be there yet, but we are better than yesterday,” Oboth said.
Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, Lt. Gen. Sam Okiding, credited the President for building a disciplined, patriotic army.
“For the UPDF, discipline is not just about obedience; it's about self-control, focus, and commitment to excellence,” Okiding said.
The ceremony brought together 2,000 guests, including senior UPDF officers, government officials, and members of the clergy.
