The event, led by ONC manager and Senior Presidential Advisor Hajjat Hadijah Namyalo, combined birthday celebrations with prayers and remembrance for people who died during Uganda’s 1981–1986 liberation struggle.
Among those present were families of fallen fighters, surviving veterans, religious leaders and government officials. Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja represented President Museveni at the ceremony.
The gathering also provided an opportunity for children and grandchildren of the former fighters to speak about the challenges they continue to face many years after the war.
Anna Ruyondo Lumumba and Patricia Magara, who represented the families, thanked President Museveni for appointing Namyalo to lead the ONC. They said her office has provided an opportunity for people who feel ignored by other government offices to present their concerns.
They also argued that many children of fallen fighters have good education and skills and could contribute to government and the private sector if given more opportunities.
Namyalo said the government has made efforts to support families of fallen veterans but suggested that some intended beneficiaries have not received the full assistance. She called for greater attention to the difficulties facing the families.
During the ceremony, Prime Minister Nabbanja also spoke about President Museveni's continued leadership. She said the President remains active and capable of leading Uganda as long as he continues to have the strength and life to do so.
The birthday celebration also included prayers for Museveni and remembrance of the people who died during the liberation struggle.
Namyalo used the occasion to emphasise her support for Museveni's continued leadership and referred to the “Tova Ku Main” message that she has previously promoted in support of the President.
The event came as political discussion in Uganda continues around the country's future leadership and the 2031 elections. However, the main focus of the Kyambogo gathering was the President's birthday and remembering the sacrifices of the country's former liberation fighters.
President Museveni, who was born on September 15, 1944, turned 82 on Tuesday.
