President Museveni will confer awards in various categories upon 20 outstanding Ugandans, under the National Honours and Awards during the 64th Independence Day celebrations scheduled for Friday at State House, Entebbe.
The awards will recognise Ugandans for their contribution to the country as the nation commemorates 64 years since attaining Independence.
The celebrations will be held under the theme, “Embracing our Sovereignty with Hope and Visionary Leadership,” which highlights the sacrifices of Uganda’s Independence heroes and heroines and the achievements registered since 1962.
According to a statement by the Minister for the Presidency, Babirye Milly Babalanda, President Museveni is expected to officiate at the celebrations, which will be held under a virtual arrangement with only a limited number of invited dignitaries physically attending the venue.
At least 30 VVIPs and a few religious leaders are expected at State House, while the rest of the country will follow the celebrations and the President’s message through Uganda Broadcasting Corporation and other national broadcasters.
The Independence Day celebrations commemorate Uganda’s attainment of self-rule on October 9, 1962, and provide an opportunity for the country to reflect on its historical journey, honour those who contributed to the struggle for self-rule and celebrate achievements made since Independence.
The statement said the celebrations will also seek to strengthen national unity, patriotism and a sense of national identity, while promoting awareness of national programmes, achievements and aspirations.
The 64th Independence anniversary celebrations are being funded by State House despite a Cabinet directive issued in March 2026 to temporarily suspend national and international day celebrations from the 2026/27 financial year and redirect the allocated funds to other government priorities.
Preparations are being coordinated by the National Organising Committee under the Office of the President, with security arrangements being put in place at State House and along relevant routes.
The Special Forces Command will take overall responsibility for security at the venue, while the Uganda Police Force will provide security along routes, around the venue and within the Kampala Metropolitan Area, with support from the UPDF, ISO and ESO.
The Minister said preparations for the celebrations are on course and called upon Ugandans to participate in the national occasion with patriotism, unity and pride.
She urged Ugandans to use the anniversary to reflect on the country’s journey since Independence, celebrate national achievements and renew their commitment to building a peaceful, prosperous and sovereign Uganda.
