The Vice President of Uganda, H.E. Jessica Alupo, has officially launched the commencement of Army Week and the 44th Tarehe Sita Anniversary celebrations at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs headquarters in Mbuya. Reflecting on the historical significance of February 6, 1981, Alupo described it as a defining moment in Uganda’s history, marking the beginning of the liberation struggle led by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. This struggle ultimately led to the formation of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).“February 6, 1981, was a watershed moment in our country’s history, shaping its trajectory toward peace, security, stability, freedom, democracy, and socio-economic transformation,” Alupo stated.

She commended the UPDF for its dedication to stability and national development, emphasizing that it has become one of Uganda’s most trusted institutions.This year’s Tarehe Sita celebrations will be held in the Greater Masaka sub-region, a key area in the liberation struggle. Alupo highlighted the UPDF’s contributions beyond security, citing infrastructure projects, agricultural support through Operation Wealth Creation (OWC), and national development efforts by the National Enterprise Corporation (NEC).