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President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has reiterated his government’s dedication to honoring Uganda’s war veterans and strengthening grassroots security, as the country marked the 36th Heroes Day celebrations. The national event, held at Lyantonde Technical Institute Grounds in Kaliiro Town Council, Lyantonde District, was graced by the President alongside First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports Janet Kataaha Museveni.

In his address, President Museveni paid tribute to the National Resistance Army (NRA) fighters and commended the communities of Kabula and Sembabule for their critical support during Uganda’s liberation struggle.

“I salute all those who stood firm during the resistance, particularly the people of Kabula and Sembabule, who were instrumental in our victory,” he said.

Honouring Heroes and Supporting Veterans

Heroes Day, observed annually on June 9, celebrates the courage and sacrifice of Ugandans who contributed to the country’s liberation and development. First commemorated in 1989, the day remembers, among others, the execution of NRA fighters led by Edidian Mukiibi Luttamaguzi in 1981.

This year’s theme was “The Legacy and Ideals of Our Heroes: A Memorable Inspiration.” Museveni used the occasion to instruct the Ministry of Luwero Triangle to refocus its budget towards practical assistance for veterans’ families. He recommended a cost-sharing approach in housing support by providing iron sheets and cement while families contribute labour and bricks.

“You don’t have to build the whole house, but help with the essentials. Let’s solve one challenge at a time,” he advised.

He also recounted past efforts to support veterans, including his 2013 directive for wealth creation programmes like NAADS and Operation Wealth Creation to prioritise veteran families, and a 2008 initiative to give financial tokens to veteran leaders and supporters.

To improve access to healthcare for veterans, Museveni announced that medical services for former fighters would be relocated to Entebbe Grade B Hospital to cut costs. Additionally, a dedicated burial fund for veterans was confirmed.

Addressing Rural Insecurity

President Museveni raised concerns about rural insecurity, attributing recent incidents to poor coordination and delayed response. He cited a fatal attack in Kisojo, Bukomansimbi, as an example of systemic lapses.

In response, he directed that every sub-county police station should operate a 24-hour toll-free emergency line staffed in shifts. He highlighted a case near Lukaya where timely police intervention, initiated by a nurse’s emergency call, led to the arrest of attackers.

“These criminals were not extraordinary. They exploited our poor organisation,” he stated, noting that cases in Masaka were similarly resolved with the help of police dogs and coordinated tracking.

Land Justice and Infrastructure Development

On land rights, Museveni denounced illegal evictions of bibanja tenants and announced plans for legislation that would allow tenants to pay rent through sub-county offices. Landlords who refuse these payments will be prohibited from evicting tenants.

“This colonial legacy of chasing people off their land must stop. It’s illegal,” he affirmed.

He also encouraged livestock farmers to grow pasture and promised government support for smallholder irrigation systems to improve production during dry seasons. On family property, Museveni urged against fragmentation, advocating for structured inheritance to preserve assets.

Highlighting infrastructure development, the President pledged to improve roads in the region, including the Ntutsi–Kashagama–Lyantonde and Lyantonde–Lumbugu–Rakai routes.

“We’re making progress with wealth creation. Let’s protect these gains and complete the journey we began together,” he said.

Tributes from Leaders

Minister for the Presidency, Babirye Milly Babalanda, praised President Museveni as a living hero and credited his leadership with bringing peace and stability to Uganda.

“Your sacrifices have made Uganda a beacon of peace, even sheltering nearly two million refugees,” she said. She also acknowledged the role of Kabula residents in the liberation effort and called for peace as the country heads toward elections.

State Minister for the Luwero Triangle and Rwenzori Region, Alice Kaboyo, echoed these sentiments, lauding Museveni’s consistent support for veterans and security reforms such as the sub-county policing model. She highlighted ongoing partnerships with the National Enterprise Corporation and reported that over 2,300 patients were treated during a medical outreach in Heroes Day week.

Kigundu Kabandwa, Chairperson of Civilian Veterans in the Luwero Triangle, commended the UPDF’s professionalism and thanked the government for recognising Lyantonde’s historical contribution to the liberation movement.

The event concluded with President Museveni and the First Lady laying a wreath at a local monument in memory of fallen NRA fighters. Numerous individuals—including veterans, public servants, and community leaders—were honoured for their service. The celebration was attended by Vice President Jessica Alupo, First Deputy Prime Minister Rebecca Kadaga, senior government officials, MPs, diplomats, and religious and cultural leaders.