President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has urged Ugandans to strike a balance between faith and hard work, saying the two are equally important for the country’s development.
Speaking at the 15th Annual Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs/UPDF Thanksgiving Breakfast in Mbuya, the President, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF), reflected on what he described as a lifelong debate between predestination and human responsibility.
“Sometimes people emphasise miracles over effort, as if work is unnecessary,” President Museveni said. “That has never been my view.”
He noted that while faith plays a key role in guiding people, human beings have the responsibility to utilise their abilities and resources to transform society.
President Museveni also recounted his departure from the Scripture Union in 1965 after disagreeing with missionaries who taught that prayer alone was enough for success.
“They believed that if you prayed, God would do the rest,” he said, explaining that he instead adopted a philosophy that balances faith with action.
The President cited experiences from the early days of the National Resistance Army (NRA) struggle to illustrate how faith and preparation worked together during the liberation war. He referred to the 1981 attack on Kabamba Barracks, noting that although the fighters faced setbacks, later successes in 1983 and 1985 were achieved through proper planning, landmines, timing, and determination alongside divine guidance.
He also commended the Chief of Defence Forces, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, for emphasising the importance of remembering the historical contribution of the NRA and honouring those who sacrificed during the struggle.
President Museveni further stressed the need to preserve Uganda’s history, acknowledging concerns about the lack of a national museum to document the country’s liberation journey.
“How can people know the history if it is neglected? Preserving our heritage is essential to teaching future generations about the struggle, effort, and faith that shaped our journey,” he said.
The Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Jacob Markson Oboth, said the thanksgiving breakfast provides an opportunity to reflect on the country’s progress and reaffirm commitment to peace, security, and the professional development of the UPDF.
“This occasion allows us to reflect on the anniversary and renew our commitment to the continued transformation of our country, mindful of the Defence sector’s contributions and landmark achievements over the years,” he said.
Former Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Henry Luke Orombi, who delivered the guest sermon, urged the UPDF to remain disciplined and faithful while serving as a “people’s army” that protects citizens and upholds professional standards.
He also highlighted the importance of family support for soldiers and leaders, commending President Museveni and First Lady Janet Museveni for demonstrating family unity and leadership.
The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Rosettie Byengoma, said the thanksgiving event commemorates 45 years since the launch of the NRA struggle and 40 years of the UPDF’s transformation into a professional national army.
“This reminds us of a time when a small group of determined patriots chose the difficult path of liberation over comfort and silence,” she said, paying tribute to veterans whose sacrifices laid the foundation for national unity, peace, and socio-economic transformation.
Byengoma also highlighted activities carried out during the recent Tarehe Sita celebrations in Kabale District, including medical camps, infrastructure rehabilitation, and community sensitization programmes under the UPDF’s civil–military cooperation initiatives.
She called on young officers to protect the gains of the revolution, noting that today’s challenges are different from those faced during the liberation struggle.
“The battle is now fought in professionalism, ethics, competence, and service delivery. It is a fight against corruption, complacency, tribalism, misinformation, and moral decay,” she said.
Representing the Chief of Defence Forces, Lt Gen Sam Okiding said the thanksgiving gathering provides an opportunity to appreciate God’s guidance and remember the sacrifices made by patriots.
“Thanksgiving is a time to come together, reflect on our blessings, and give thanks to the Almighty for all that He has bestowed upon us,” he said.
