In a heartfelt ceremony commemorating Heroes Day, President Yoweri Museveni awarded medals to 49 distinguished individuals for their outstanding contributions to Uganda's socio-economic transformation.
Among the honorees was Sheikh Mohammed Bin Maktoum Bin Jumah Al Maktoum from the United Arab Emirates, who received the prestigious Order of the Crested Crane 1st Class Medal, recognizing his significant business achievements and philanthropic efforts.
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The event, held at Mpenja Church of Uganda Primary School playgrounds in Gomba District, began with President Museveni laying a wreath at a hero's monument. This act of remembrance honored the freedom fighters who lost their lives through extrajudicial killings during the liberation war from 1981 to 1986.
"Today, we honor the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought for our freedom," Museveni stated. "Their courage has paved the way for the peace and progress we enjoy today."
The Minister of State for Luwero Triangle/Rwenzori Region, Hon. Alice Kaboyo, praised the indomitable spirit of Ugandans who have contributed to the nation's development.
"Uganda has made great strides towards socio-economic transformation and human development. However, the road has not been easy given the long history of insecurity and socio-economic instability of the past. We appreciate Your Excellency for the great sacrifice and that of other gallant sons of Uganda, some of whom paid with the ultimate price of blood to restore the political, social, and economic sanity in a country once haunted by bad leadership," she said.
Kaboyo also emphasized the importance of ongoing efforts to support veterans and their families.
"Recently, I embarked on a journey to empower veterans around the country, and so far, hundreds of families have been supported economically," she added.
The ceremony underscored Uganda's progress and the resilience of its people. Hon. Kaboyo called upon leaders to continue advocating for peace and unity to ensure sustainable socio-economic transformation.
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"We must continuously preach and teach the gospel of peace and unity for the sustainability and preservation of Uganda's socio-economic transformation," she urged.
The event was graced by several high-ranking officials, including Vice President Jessica Alupo, Speaker of Parliament Anita Among, Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, and NRM First National Vice Chairman Alhajj Moses Kigongo.
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Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, 1st Deputy Prime Minister Rebecca Kadaga, and NRM Secretary General Richard Todwong were also in attendance, alongside ministers, judiciary officials, members of parliament, security agency leaders, members of the diplomatic corps, and religious and cultural leaders.
As Uganda celebrated its heroes, the ceremony highlighted the nation's ongoing commitment to honoring those who have made significant contributions to its development. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Maktoum Bin Jumah Al Maktoum's recognition serves as a testament to the enduring bonds of international friendship and cooperation.
