Fourty Five years ago, precisely in 1981 the Popular Resistance Army (PRA) launched its war against the Uganda National Liberation Army (UNLA) and the second Uganda Peoples’ Congress government of President Apollo Milton Obote.
The protracted guerilla war ended on 26 January 1986 effectively dislodging the dictatorship in Kampala and ushering in a new leadership under Gen. Yoweri Museveni.
The rebel movement also comprised of Rwandan refugees who played a pivotal frontline role during the liberation struggle.
In 1995, the Resistance army was officially gazetted as Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) effectively taking on a national character . This means evolving from being the shield of a revolution into the shield of a republic.
On February 6, Ugandans gathered in Kabale, a town bordering Rwanda to celebrate the 45 years of the revolution.
“The 45th Tarehe Sita celebrations is a symbol of resilience and a reminder of the young men and women who sacrificed everything for Uganda to begin a new chapter,” said a former Resistance movement fighter.
Rwanda was represented well at the Tarehe Sita celebrations. (pictured) Rwanda Defense Forces officers led by Maj. Gen. Alex Kagame and Brig. Gen. Ronald Rwivanga.
