Thirty-three distinguished Ugandans will be honored with national medals during the 40th anniversary of the National Resistance Movement/Army (NRM/A) Liberation Day on January 26, 2026, in recognition of their outstanding service and contribution to the nation.
The announcement was made by the Minister for the Presidency, Milly Babirye Babalanda, during a press briefing at the Uganda Media Center today, 23rd January 2026.
She revealed that President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni will lead the award ceremony at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds as the chief guest and personally hand out the awards.
The celebrations will carry the theme; “A Tribute to the Patriots Who Ushered in Fundamental Change’’ commemorating the historic victory that brought President Museveni to power and will be observed nationwide, highlighting four decades of NRM leadership and development achievements.
According to Minister Babalanda, the 33 recipients were selected from various sectors including public service, business, security, community leadership, and other fields for their exemplary service, dedication, and contributions to advancing Uganda’s progress under NRM leadership.
While the full list of honorees and medal categories under the National Honours and Awards framework is yet to be released, the awards continue the longstanding tradition of recognizing patriots on Liberation Day.
Babalanda highlighted key advancements achieved since the liberation struggle, attributing them to deliberate government planning and strategic policies aimed at improving Ugandan livelihoods.
She noted progress in healthcare, where expanded access to services and infrastructure has reduced mortality and improved life expectancy; broadened education opportunities, with increased enrollment and new school facilities; water access, through rural and urban piped water projects; and ICT, with widespread mobile penetration, digital services and connectivity that have modernized communication and business.
“These developments are the result of deliberate policies and persistent efforts to uplift communities and build a self-reliant nation,” Babalanda said.
The 40th NRM/A Liberation Day celebrations will feature official ceremonies, parades, speeches, cultural performances, and public participation, reflecting on Uganda’s journey from conflict to stability and development.
The event will honor both those who sacrificed during the liberation struggle and those continuing to build on that legacy.
Babalanda urged all Ugandans to join the national festivities in a spirit of unity and patriotism, celebrating the nation’s history and ongoing achievements.
