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Uganda Celebrates 62 Years of Independence: A Journey of Struggle and Progress

On Tuesday, Uganda celebrates its 62nd anniversary of independence from British colonial rule. Sputnik Africa looks back at the country's struggle for independence and its successes.
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Uganda's struggle for independence was a significant period marked by political mobilization and the rise of nationalist movements. The process began in the early 1940s and culminated on October 9, 1962, when Uganda gained independence from British colonial rule.
Key figures, like Milton Obote and the Uganda People's Congress, played prominent roles in negotiating self-governance and uniting diverse ethnic groups. The transition was relatively peaceful compared to other African nations, setting the stage for Uganda to establish its own government and national identity.
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In the years since independence, Uganda has experienced significant economic growth. In 2023, Uganda's GDP grew by 5.5%, driven by the agricultural sector, which employs over 70% of the population. This has been complemented by increasing investment in infrastructure. The discovery and exploration of oil reserves in the Albertine region, expected to generate up to $3 billion annually by 2025, promises to be a game-changer for Uganda's economy.
Uganda has also made significant progress in education and healthcare. According to the World Bank, primary school enrollment increased from 62% in 1992 to over 90% in recent years, reflecting the government's commitment to free and universal education. In healthcare, the country has seen improvements in maternal and child health, with maternal mortality falling from 438 per 100,000 live births in 2011 to 336 in 2016.

Sputnik Africa extends its warmest congratulations to the people and government of Uganda, wishing them continued peace, prosperity, and unity in the years to come.