Uganda commemorates independence from British rule

Uganda marks the anniversary of its independence from British rule, which was officially achieved on October 9, 1962. Prior to this, the region functioned as a British protectorate established in the late 19th century.

National symbols were central to the country’s new identity. The Independence Monument in Kampala, a sculpture by Kenyan artist Gregory Maloba, depicts a mother breaking free from ropes to symbolize the emergence of a new nation. The national flag, featuring black, yellow, and red bands with a grey crowned crane, was adopted at the time of independence. While Grace Ibingira is often credited with its design, historical accounts suggest it was a collaborative process involving a national symbols committee.

Following independence, Apollo Milton Obote served as the first prime minister. The transition involved complex internal dynamics, particularly regarding the autonomy of the Buganda kingdom, which later became a republic with King Mutesa serving as president.