Uganda will on January 26, 2026, commemorate four decades since the National Resistance Movement came to power, an event government leaders say marked the beginning of lasting political stability and national rebuilding.
The anniversary celebrations will take place on Monday at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds and will be presided over by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
The Minister for the Presidency, Babirye Milly Babalanda, said earlier today during the press briefing,that the occasion carries added significance following the President’s recent electoral victory.
This year’s Liberation Day celebrations come at a time when President Museveni has just been re-elected with a strong mandate and it reflects the confidence Ugandans continue to place in his leadership and vision for the country, said Babalanda.
She explained that January 26 marks the day NRA forces entered Kampala in 1986, bringing an end to years of military rule and political turmoil.
Museveni was later sworn in as president, pledging to overhaul the country’s governance.
Recalling his words at the time, Babalanda quoted Museveni as saying, “No one should think that what is happening today is a mere change of guards: it is a fundamental change in the politics of our country.
According to the minister, Uganda before 1986 had endured repeated violent changes of government that weakened state institutions and devastated the economy.
She said the situation has since improved, with the country enjoying relative peace and secure borders, despite regional security pressures from neighboring states.
Babalanda noted that the economy has steadily expanded, citing increased power generation capacity, improved revenue collection, and sustained growth that has placed Uganda among the faster-growing economies globally.
She also highlighted progress in social services, pointing to expanded access to education through Universal Primary and Secondary Education, growth in the number of public universities, and increased government investment in health infrastructure, including specialized treatment centers.
The focus has been on building systems that serve all Ugandans, whether in education, health, water access, or digital services, she added.
The celebrations will include a military parade featuring the UPDF, Uganda Police Force, Uganda Prisons Service, and Uganda Wildlife Authority.
President Museveni is also expected to award national medals to Ugandans recognized for their contribution to the country’s development.
Babalanda said agriculture remains central to Uganda’s economy, employing the largest share of the population and driving export earnings, particularly in coffee.
She concluded by saying the achievements registered over the last 40 years provide a solid platform for continued progress.
“The journey of transformation that began in 1986 continues, and the gains made so far must be safeguarded and built upon for future generations,” she said.
