Indians in Uganda celebrate 79th Independence Day

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Indians living in Uganda have joined fellow nationals across the globe in celebrating their country's Independence Day.

The celebrations at the High Commission of India in Kampala city on Friday, August 15, 2025, were marked with pride, patriotism and cultural displays. The event started at 7:30am, with guests witnessing the flag-hoisting ceremony and welcoming dignitaries.

The event started at 7:30am, with guests witnessing the flag-hoisting ceremony and welcoming dignitaries. (Photo by Annabel Oyera)

High Commissioner of India to Uganda, Shri Upender Singh Rawat, who led the celebrations, hoisted the national tricolour and addressed the gathering.

“August 15 is a day to remember the sacrifices of our freedom fighters and celebrate the spirit of India’s democracy. It is also a moment to strengthen the bonds between India and Uganda and to reflect on our shared values of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity,” he said. 

Blood donation drive

As part of the celebrations, a blood donation drive was held, showing that patriotism can also mean giving back to the community.

As part of the celebrations, members of the Indian Community donated blood. (Photo by Annabel Oyera)

Volunteers from the Indian community and local friends joined in, supporting those in need and turning the day into an act of service as well as celebration.

Members of the Indian community, Ugandan friends, and invited guests attended the event, which featured colourful cultural performances and patriotic songs, creating a festive atmosphere.

Commissioner Singh highlighted India’s achievements in education, technology, healthcare, and defence, noting that these successes reflect the country’s progress and the resilience of its people. He also acknowledged the role of the Indian diaspora in Uganda and Burundi, praising their contributions to business, culture, and social service.

High Commissioner of India to Uganda, Shri Upender Singh Rawat, making his speech. (Photo by Annabel Oyera)

“The Independence Day celebrations are not only about hoisting the flag, but they are about pride, unity, and friendship, and about looking forward to a future built on cooperation, progress, and shared heritage,” he said.

The event concluded with more cultural performances, bringing together the community in a spirit of joy and patriotism, while strengthening the ties between India and Uganda.

Indians living in Uganda have joined fellow nationals across the globe in celebrating their country's Independence Day. (Photo by Annabel Oyera)

Modi delivers longest speech

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (August 15, 2025) delivered a 103-minute Independence Day speech from the Red Fort, the longest by any prime minister in India's history, according to The Hindu.

In his 12th consecutive Independence Day address, Modi outlined new economic and security initiatives, including a GST overhaul, a financing scheme for first-time job seekers, indigenous semiconductor production, and Mission Sudarshan Chakra, aimed at safeguarding strategic and public sites.