The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has successfully conducted a series of ideological training symposia targeting veterans, religious leaders, and youth leaders across the Kigezi sub-region as part of the ongoing 45th Tarehe Sita Anniversary commemorations.
The programme drew hundreds of participants and culminated in resolutions aimed at strengthening community engagement and support for national development.
Coordinated by the Joint Staff Political Commissariat under the leadership of Major General Henry Masiko, on behalf of the Defence Organising Committee for Tarehe Sita Activities, the training is part of a recurring mobilisation initiative designed to empower community leaders in ideological and civic responsibilities.
“This year in Kigezi, we split our target groups into three categories to ensure focused engagement and maximum impact,” Maj Gen Masiko explained. Over 400 youth leaders underwent a seven-day intensive programme at St. Gerard’s Secondary School in Rukungiri District. Simultaneously, two concurrent seminars were held at Brimstone High School in Kabale District, one for religious leaders and another for veterans.
During his address to religious leaders, the Special Presidential Envoy and former Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda, emphasised unity and ideological clarity as key drivers of national progress.
He highlighted the historical role of religious figures in Uganda’s liberation struggle, citing examples such as Father Seguya, and linked the lessons of colonialism and slavery to the continued mission of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) in securing Africa’s rightful place on the global stage.
Religious leaders attending the sessions proposed formal partnerships with government programmes, calling for inclusive training across denominations, greater involvement in UPDF modernisation initiatives, and enhanced support for youth facilities and community development projects.
The Veterans’ seminar provided a platform for ideological refresher training and regional networking. Officers from the UPDF pension and legal departments briefed participants on enhanced benefits under the amended UPDF Act (2025), including improved medical care, dignified burial provisions, and pension adjustments aligned with current active-duty salary scales.
Veterans such as Capt (Rtd) Alisene Wedgie and Capt (Rtd) Damson Christmas Chivumba expressed gratitude for state recognition and pledged to cascade the knowledge and skills gained to their districts and communities.
Over 400 youth leaders participating in Rukungiri District were reminded by Brig Gen Michael Kibuye, Director of Civil-Military Cooperation, of the region’s historical contribution to Uganda’s liberation struggle and encouraged to uphold the values championed by the country’s liberators.
The symposia engaged participants from Kabale, Kisoro, Rukungiri, Rukiga, Rubanda, and Kanungu districts, reinforcing the UPDF’s commitment to civic education, national unity, and the empowerment of community leaders across generations.
