President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has challenged Ugandans to embrace a balance between faith and human effort, saying both are essential to national development.
“Sometimes people emphasise miracles over effort, as if work is unnecessary,” the President said. “That has never been my view.”
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 UPDF, reflected on a lifelong “oscillation in thought” regarding predestination and human mandate.
The President argued that while God provides guidance, man is endowed with the power to “establish dominion over nature.”
President Museveni recounted his 1965 departure from the Scripture Union due to a fundamental disagreement with missionary leaders who taught that “if you prayed, God would do the rest.” He positioned his philosophy between the “extremes” of passive religious dependency and the total atheism he encountered among university scholars.
Recalling the early days of the National Resistance Army’s (NRA) struggle, the President cited military hurdles, such as the 1981 attack on Kabamba barracks, as evidence of divine timing coupled with the need for preparation.
“God did not want us to take the large guns yet because we lacked the manpower to hold them,” he noted, adding that later successes in 1983 and 1985 required “landmines, planning, and timing” alongside divine providence.
He praised the Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba for highlighting the need to remember the NRA’s historical contributions and for emphasising the need to honour the sacrifices of those who fought in the struggle.
President Museveni underscored the importance of preserving national history, acknowledging criticisms over the absence of a museum to educate younger generations about Uganda’s liberation struggle and development milestones.
“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, Hon. Jacob Markson Oboth, emphasised that the Thanksgiving breakfast provides a moment to 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,” Hon. Oboth said.
He highlighted faith as central to Uganda’s liberation struggle and development, saying, “In critical moments, with just cause, God will locate people your way. Your Excellency, you are not done yet. God will continue to bring people who will help you to fulfil the mission that you still have for this country.”
Former Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Rt. Reverend Henry Luke Orombi, who delivered the guest sermon, drew parallels between the biblical leader Joshua and Uganda’s military and national journey. He emphasised discipline, obedience, and faithfulness, urging the UPDF to remain a “people’s army” that serves citizens while upholding moral and professional standards.
Rt. Rev. Orombi stressed the importance of family as the nucleus of support for soldiers and leaders, praising President Museveni and First Lady Janet Museveni as role models in demonstrating family unity and leadership.
Rt. Rev. Orombi pointed out the need for historical education, advocating for the establishment of a museum that documents Uganda’s struggles during past regimes and the path to liberation.
“Our generation needs to know this story to appreciate the peace we enjoy today,” he said, referencing global examples such as the Holocaust Museum in Jerusalem.
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Mrs. Rosettie Byengoma, reflected on the historical significance of the event, commemorating 45 years since the launch of the National Resistance Army struggle and 40 years of the UPDF’s growth 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. Mrs. Byengoma paid tribute to veterans and revolutionaries who made sacrifices, some paying the ultimate price, noting that their contributions laid the foundation for national unity, peace, and socio-economic transformation.
She highlighted the Tarehe Sita celebrations in Kabale district as a symbol of patriotism and hard work, noting the UPDF’s civil-military cooperation initiatives, including medical camps, engineering projects, infrastructure rehabilitation, and community sensitisation programs.
Mrs. Byengoma called on young officers to uphold the gains of the revolution, stressing that today’s challenges differ from those fought in the bush.
“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.
She emphasised that continuous professional development, respect for civilian authority, and adherence to human rights are essential to maintaining public trust.
Lt Gen Sam Okiding, representing the Chief of Defence Forces, added that thanksgiving provides a moment to reflect on God’s guidance and the sacrifices of 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, quoting James 1:17.
“Today, we commemorate the courage, sacrifices, and patriotism of our gallant Ugandans, led by our beloved revolutionary and visionary leader, His Excellency, the President.”
The event drew Service Chiefs, serving and retired generals, senior and junior officers, and other dignitaries.
