As Uganda prepares to mark 64 years of independence on October 9, 2026, the Head of the Office of the National Chairman (ONC) of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), Hajjat Hadijah Namyalo Uzeiye, has urged citizens to protect the country's gains, manage its resources responsibly, and maintain peace and stability. Namyalo, also a Senior Presidential Adviser to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, delivered the message ahead of the Independence Day celebrations.
Uganda attained political independence from Britain on October 9, 1962, and this year's celebrations will mark 64 years of independence. The national celebrations are scheduled for Kololo Ceremonial Grounds in Kampala, where the programme will include the national parade, cultural performances, and the Independence address. Namyalo asked Ugandans to look beyond the celebrations and reflect on the country's journey since 1962.
Namyalo noted that although Uganda achieved political independence in 1962, independence did not immediately translate into peace, security, and stability. According to her, the country subsequently experienced political crises, military coups, dictatorship, and prolonged armed conflicts that affected national development. She said this history should remind Ugandans that political independence alone is not sufficient if citizens cannot enjoy peace, security, and freedom.
Namyalo used the occasion to highlight the role she said the NRM liberation struggle played in restoring stability following years of political turmoil. She said that when President Museveni assumed power in 1986, he inherited a country that had been deeply affected by conflict and political instability. According to her, the NRM's vision was not simply to capture political power but to restore Uganda, establish peace and security, rebuild institutions, and create conditions under which Ugandans could meaningfully enjoy the independence attained in 1962.
Namyalo also acknowledged the political freedoms Ugandans exercise today, saying citizens can debate, criticise government, and participate in politics. She, however, cautioned Ugandans against allowing political disagreements to undermine the country's peace and stability. “We may disagree politically, but we must not forget where Uganda came from,” she said. She urged citizens to protect the gains made over the years rather than engage in actions that could plunge the country back into instability.
Namyalo's Independence message placed considerable emphasis on Uganda's economic future, particularly highlighting the country's oil resources. She said the discovery of petroleum should become an opportunity for national transformation rather than a source of conflict or division. “The discovery of our treasure oil in Uganda has to benefit us all, not to be turned messy,” she said. Namyalo called for Uganda's natural resources to be managed in a manner that benefits citizens across the country.
Namyalo urged Ugandans to celebrate Independence Day with “a clear mind, peaceful thoughts and stability” that have enabled independence to become meaningful. She said the country should protect the achievements made over the years while continuing to address challenges facing citizens. Namyalo also used a series of metaphors in her message to emphasise the kind of leadership and national responsibility she believes Uganda needs going forward, including wisdom, humility, and leaders who understand the weight of the responsibility entrusted to them.
Key points
- Namyalo urges Ugandans to protect independence gains and ensure natural resources benefit all citizens.
- She highlights the NRM's role in restoring stability and promoting peace and security.
- Namyalo cautions against allowing political disagreements to undermine peace and stability.
