The UPDF Deputy Chief Political Commissar, Col Nelson Aheebwa, has urged Ugandans to associate with the defence forces to consolidate peace and security.

"Developed countries first consolidated their peace and security to be where they are," he said.

Speaking in Mbale city in eastern Uganda, Aheebwa said the synergy between the UPDF and the people bears fruits of peace and security.

Peace and security, he added, translates into infrastructural explosion, increased power usage as its demand increases and population growth, among other things.

Mbale is hosting the 41st Tarehe Sita anniversary celebrations, marked every February 6 to remember the day when the National Resistance Army led by current President Yoweri Museveni launched an armed struggle to end misrule in Uganda.

This Sunday's event will be a culmination of the Defence Forces Week activities in the Elgon region.

This year's commemorations are themed: 'Retracing the Peoples' Struggle for Peace and Security for a Modern Uganda.'

"Tarehe Sita activities enhance our relationship with the population and are a reflection of the peace and security in the country," said Aheebwa.

"Sharing with the people or giving back to the people by the forces consolidates this relationship that has made Uganda come out of being a laughingstock to a country where everyone asks what went right."

Youths have particularly been encouraged to be active in Uganda's socio-economic transformation.

In a region vulnerable to natural disasters such as landslides, Aheebwa said using experts to share knowledge on the best practices on land use and soil conservation reflects a peoples' army that cares for its people.

"Community engagements like free minor surgeries, free medication, COVID-19 vaccination, financial literacy, career guidance, donation of scholastic materials, mosquito nets and mattresses are some of the activities that renew the relationship between UPDF and the people.

Meanwhile, at Nabumali High School, the head of mobilization for Tarehe Sita in Mbale district, Col Charles Kamya, said the defence forces activities are symbolic in recognition of the Elgon region's contribution to the struggle.

At St. Bosco Primary Teachers' College in Nyondo, Mbale district, Kamya commended the staff for associating with the UPDF in the socio-economic transformation of the country.

 "UPDF is in the Elgon region to retrace where they came from. We embrace you because we came from you, we share with you and associate with you," he said.

Moses Kitui, the mayor of Nabumali Town Council, hailed the army for securing the country and urged students to protect peace and security because it resulted from love and sacrifice.