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Uganda People’s Defense Force Reportedly Encloses Area for National Military Museum

15:23, 29 September 2024

Christina Glazkova

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The 1985 battle at Katonga Bridge was a key moment in Uganda's civil war, with National Resistance Army rebels led by Yoweri Museveni clashing with government forces. The NRA's victory cut off reinforcements to Kampala, weakening the regime and leading to the eventual overthrow of President Milton Obote, paving the way for Museveni's rise to power.

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The Uganda People’s Defense Force (UPDF) has begun securing land for the National Military Museum near the Katonga Bridge on the Kampala-Masaka highway, local media reported on Sunday.

The 24.3-acre site will house a museum dedicated to Uganda's military history, focusing on pivotal moments like the 1985 battle at Katonga Bridge. The museum will honor both Ugandan and international contributions to the country’s liberation.

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The project, previously delayed due to funding issues and land acquisition challenges, will now move forward with a total budget of Shs 65 billion (almost $17.6 million). Col. Deo Akiiki confirmed to the Monitor that affected landowners have been compensated, and construction will begin soon.

Initially led by the late Gen. Pecos Kuteesa, the steering committee chose Katonga to honor this historically significant battleground, as well as the Libyan soldiers who died during the 1979 war that helped overthrow Idi Amin.

The museum will display military regalia and stories from NRA and UPDF veterans, as per President Museveni’s directive. Portraits of key liberation figures such as Julius Nyerere and Samora Machel will also be featured, acknowledging their role in Uganda’s fight for liberation.