Uganda will celebrate 64 years of independence on October 9 with government scaling down the size of the national celebrations as part of efforts to reduce expenditure on national functions.

The main celebrations will be held at State House Entebbe, with only about 30 dignitaries and a few religious leaders expected to attend physically. The wider public will follow the event through Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC) platforms.

Minister for the Presidency Milly Babalanda announced the arrangements today while addressing journalists in Kampala ahead of the celebrations.

She said the decision to scale down the celebrations is deliberate, with government seeking to redirect resources that would have been spent on large gatherings to other national priorities.

This year’s celebrations will be held under the theme, “Embracing Our Sovereignty with Hope and Visionary Leadership.”

Babalanda said the theme calls on Ugandans to reflect on the country’s journey since attaining independence in 1962, while remembering the sacrifices made by national heroes and heroines.

She said the celebrations will also be preceded by national prayers, with different religious denominations expected to organise prayer sessions as part of the commemoration.

Security agencies, including the Special Forces Command, Uganda Police Force and Uganda People’s Defence Forces, will provide security during the Independence Day celebrations and related activities.

Babalanda also announced that President Museveni, through the National Honours and Awards system, will recognise 20 Ugandans for their outstanding contribution to the country.

The honourees will be recognised for their contribution to Uganda, including their role in the country’s independence struggle.

Uganda gained independence from British colonial rule on October 9, 1962, and the anniversary is commemorated annually with national celebrations across the country.