President Museveni Reflects on Divine Connection in Shaping Uganda’s Progress
His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the President of the Republic of Uganda and Commander-in-Chief of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces has highlighted the interconnection between secular and spiritual principles in leadership and governance in shaping Uganda’s progress.
Speaking at the 14th Annual Tarehe Sita Thanksgiving held at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs Headquarters in Mbuya, President Museveni reflected on the historical missions that guided the National Resistance Movement (NRM) and the UPDF, emphasising patriotism, Pan-Africanism, social-economic transformation, and democracy as the pillars of national development.
“From the beginning, the secular and the spiritual have been intertwined,” President Museveni stated. “On the secular side, we identified three historical missions: prosperity for our people, strategic security for Africa, and African unity. To achieve prosperity, one cannot rely on sectarianism. People who push tribal and religious divisions are enemies of progress.”
He illustrated his point using examples from Uganda’s economy, noting that farmers often produce similar goods, which means they must rely on markets beyond their immediate communities. “A cattle keeper in Ankole cannot sell milk to his neighbour who also has milk; they need markets in Kampala and beyond,” he said.
“That’s why we advocate for patriotism and Pan-Africanism not just as ideologies, but as necessities for prosperity.”
President Museveni drew parallels between Uganda’s secular development and biblical teachings. “Jesus summarized all commandments into two: Love God with all your heart and love your neighbour as yourself. This aligns with our secular goals if you want prosperity, you must work for the prosperity of others,” he said.
He highlighted the biblical example of David, describing him as a “fighter of a new type” who used innovative means – a sling instead of a sword – to defeat Goliath. “David did not know he would be a king; he was simply diligent as a shepherd. Wherever God places you, excel. If you are a secretary, do your work well. If you are a storekeeper, do it well,” he urged.
President Museveni acknowledged the role of divine intervention in Uganda’s struggles. He recounted the 1981 attack on Kabamba, the first battle of the NRM’s liberation war, where their primary objective of seizing 1,000 rifles was not fully achieved.
“We were disappointed at the time, but looking back, I see that God was guiding us. We were only 41 fighters then; had we captured all those guns, we might not have been able to hold them. By 1985, when we finally captured 650 rifles, we had enough manpower to handle them,” he reflected.
He also addressed the theological debate between predestination and free will, emphasising the principle that “whatever a man sows, that is what he will reap.” He encouraged young officers to focus on hard work and diligence while trusting in divine guidance.
President Museveni reiterated the NRM’s commitment to equality and non-sectarianism. “The NRM is the lover of all human beings, irrespective of religion, tribe, or gender. How can you say you love God, whom you have never seen, but hate your neighbour? Jesus himself warned against that,” he said.
The Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Hon. Jacob Oboth Oboth, said that the thanksgiving is a long-standing tradition within the Ministry and serves as a moment of reflection and renewal of commitment to Uganda’s liberation and the defence sector’s achievements.
The Minister emphasised the divine intervention in Uganda’s liberation journey, underscoring God’s presence in every step of the struggle.
“I have heard of stories that during the struggle, Your Excellency, those who were pursuing you saw you turn into a ‘cat’. It takes God to change nature,” he recounted.
“Those who would be cornering you would see a mountain, a rock. It takes God to make your enemies see something else, other than you.”
Acknowledging the role of the First Lady, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni, the Minister praised her unwavering faith and spiritual support.
The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to building a professional and ideologically sound UPDF, stating that the Thanksgiving breakfast served as an opportunity to renew their collective commitment to peace and security in the country.
He commended the President for his leadership and efforts in improving the welfare of Uganda’s security forces acknowledging his vision towards ensuring better conditions for officers, emphasising that while they had not yet fully achieved their goal, they were in a better position than before and remained hopeful for continued progress.
Lt Gen Sam Okiding, the Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, who represented the Chief of Defence Forces, emphasised the significance of spiritual grounding in leadership and military service, drawing lessons from biblical figures such as King David.
He highlighted the UPDF’s commitment to discipline, patriotism, and professionalism, values that have shaped its reputation both regionally and internationally.
“The purpose of our convergence here today is captured in the Holy Book of God, and that is the Bible in First Chronicles 29:12-13,” said Lt Gen Okiding.
“All riches and wealth come from You. You rule everything by Your strength and power, and You are able to make anyone great and strong. Now, our Lord God, we give You thanks, and we praise Your glorious Name.”
Lt Gen Okiding reaffirmed the UPDF’s loyalty to its mission of protecting Ugandans, noting that discipline and divine purpose remain central to its operations.
The Chief Executive Officer of Wazalendo SACCO, Brig Gen Joseph Freddy Onata, in his testimony, highlighted the UPDF’s transformation from a poorly equipped guerilla force into a modern and professional military.
“The transformation of the UPDF is a testimony of three things: resilience, faith by those who started the revolution, and divine intervention from those who prayed for it,” he stated.
He drew parallels between the National Resistance Army (NRA) and biblical figures such as Gideon, David, and Nehemiah, emphasising that despite starting as a small, underestimated force, the NRA overcame significant challenges.
“Like Gideon’s army, the NRA had limited resources but possessed a strong vision and determination to cause change,” he said, referencing Judges 6 and 7.
He observed the success of Wazalendo SACCO, the UPDF’s financial cooperative, which has grown significantly under the President’s guidance. He emphasised the SACCO’s role in improving soldiers’ welfare through savings and affordable credit, ensuring financial stability even after retirement.
The Tarehe Sita Thanksgiving was held under the theme: “God’s Army Serves the People and Will Always Be a Beacon of Hope.”
Present were: the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni; Minister of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs (Veteran Affairs), Hon. Huda Abason Oleru; Religious leaders; Director External Security Organisation, Ambassador. Joseph Ocwet; Under Secretary Finance and Administration, Mrs. Edith Buturo; Commander Air Force, Lt Gen Charles Okidi; Deputy Commander Land Force, Maj Gen Francis Takirwa; Division Commanders, Service Chiefs of Staff, Joint Staffs, Generals, Retired Generals, Senior Officers, and Junior Officers, among others.
