The Resident City Commissioner of Masaka, Mr. Ahamada Washaki, has emphasised the significance of Tarehe Sita, particularly the events of 5th February 1981, when President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and 41 other patriots travelled through Masaka on their way to attack Kabamba.
Their journey, he said, faced a setback when their pick-up vehicle got a puncture in Katigondo. However, the former Town Clerk of Masaka, Nathan Ruyondo, provided them with another vehicle (a Peugeot 304), enabling them to reach their destination and launch the attack that marked the beginning of the liberation struggle.
Mr Washaki expressed gratitude to the local community for their unwavering support, which he said was instrumental in the success of the liberation war.
He lauded the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces for being a disciplined and professional army engaged in medical, civil, and engineering works that contribute to national transformation. He further commended the UPDF team in Masaka City for their dedication, discipline, and hard work.
Dr James Justice Elima, the Director of Masaka Regional Referral Hospital, highlighted Tarehe Sita as a crucial day in Uganda’s history, showcasing the strong bond between the army and the people.
He noted that civilians played a vital role in the country’s liberation and that the commemoration serves as a reminder of their contributions.
As part of the celebrations, UPDF personnel engaged in public sanitation services at the hospital as a way of giving back to the community.
“We appreciate this support as health workers and as a hospital community,” said Dr Elima.
Meanwhile, Col Henry Nevatone Serugo, the UPDF team leader in Masaka City, interacted with boda boda riders, recognising their vital role in the transport sector. He urged them to always wear reflector jackets to enhance their visibility and reduce road accidents.
“As we approach the 44th Tarehe Sita Anniversary celebrations, we strengthen and consolidate our patriotism and pan-Africanism to ensure democracy for socio-economic transformation,” Col Serugo remarked.
One of the boda boda riders, Abubaker Mayanja of Nyendo, expressed gratitude to the UPDF for providing reflector jackets, saying they would greatly improve their safety, especially at night.
The Tarehe Sita anniversary activities have been highlighted by the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces teams that have engaged in various activities including free medical camps, public health and sanitation activities and community engagement in the districts of Masaka, Masaka City, Lyantonde, Lwengo, Bukomansimbi, Kalungu, Kalangala, Kyotera, Sembabule and Rakai.
