Busia to Celebrate 62 Years of Uganda’s Independence

Busia District is abuzz with excitement as it prepares to host Uganda’s 62nd Independence Day celebrations on Wednesday, October 9, 2024. This is the first time the district will host a national event of this magnitude, marking a historic moment for the local community and Uganda at large. The event is themed “A Recommitment to Secure and Fortify Our Destiny” and will take place at Busikho PTC grounds in Masafu Town Council.
The celebrations are expected to draw thousands of attendees, including dignitaries from across Uganda and neighboring countries. In preparation, the district is putting the final touches on the venue, with tents being set up, decorations being placed, and security measures being reinforced to ensure a smooth and safe event. Local residents and traders are also preparing for the influx of visitors, setting up makeshift stalls to take advantage of the expected crowds.
In a bid to enhance security, Busia’s Resident District Commissioner, Hajira Namagogwe, is leading a team that is going door-to-door to sensitize residents on safety precautions. The team is also encouraging locals to participate in the celebrations.
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The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), Uganda Police Force, and Uganda Prison Services have been rehearsing for the big day at Busikho Primary School. For many local residents, witnessing these rehearsals has been an exciting first-time experience. Denis Nyangweso, the Member of Parliament for Samia Bugwe Central, expressed his pride in the district hosting the national event for the first time. He highlighted the district’s achievements and called for the government to establish more logistics facilities at Busia’s border with Kenya to improve trade efficiency and reduce congestion.
On Monday, the Chief of Defence Forces of the UPDF, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, inspected the parade preparations in Busia. He commended the participants for their dedication and noted improvements in marching techniques. Muhoozi also praised the military band for mastering new songs and urged them to maintain high standards throughout the parade.
Several prominent figures, including area Members of Parliament, local leaders, and senior military and security officers, joined the CDF to oversee preparations for the event. The day will culminate with President Yoweri Museveni presiding over the celebrations and awarding national medals to 40 distinguished individuals. These awards, as approved by the President, will include honors such as the National Independence Medal, the Diamond Jubilee Medal, the Luwero Triangle Medal, and long-service police medals. The recipients include five women.