Kampala

Uganda achieved independence from British colonial rule on October 9, 1962. Leading up to independence, Uganda went through a series of negotiations and political reforms, setting up the way for self-governance. The first Prime Minister was Milton Obote, representing the Uganda People's Congress. The transition marked the end of colonial rule and the start of a new governance era for the people of Uganda. Kampala, as the capital city, became the center of national celebrations and political activities in post-independence Uganda, marking it a significant day in history.

The Fall of Kampala on April 11, 1979, was a significant event during the Uganda-Tanzania War. Following Idi Amin's eight-year dictatorship characterized by brutality and oppression, combined Tanzanian forces and Ugandan exile groups launched an offensive against Amin's regime. The city of Kampala, Uganda's capital, was taken after intense battling. This led to the overthrow of Idi Amin, ushering in a new era of political dynamics in the country. The event marked a critical point in Uganda's history, symbolizing the end of Amin's notorious regime.

The 2010 Kampala bombings were a series of terrorist attacks carried out on July 11, 2010, in Kampala, Uganda. The attacks targeted crowds watching the 2010 FIFA World Cup Final at two locations, a restaurant and a rugby club, resulting in the death of 74 people and injuring dozens more. The Somali terrorist group al-Shabaab claimed responsibility for the bombings, stating it was retaliation for Uganda's participation in AMISOM, the African Union force in Somalia. The event shocked the nation and underscored the regional threat posed by al-Shabaab.

Pope Francis visited Uganda from November 27 to 29, 2015, as part of his African tour that also included Kenya and the Central African Republic. During his visit, the Pope paid tribute to the Ugandan Martyrs and addressed young people at a youth venue in Kampala. His presence brought together large crowds of faithful, strengthening the local Catholic community and highlighting the church's role in peace and unity. The visit was seen as an opportunity to message hope and reconciliation across the continent.

The 2016 Ugandan General Election took place on February 18, featuring presidential and parliamentary elections. The incumbent President Yoweri Museveni, in power since 1986, sought to extend his three-decade rule amid growing frustrations over corruption and lack of democratic reforms. His main competitor was Kizza Besigye from the Forum for Democratic Change. The elections were marked by allegations of rigging, voter intimidation, and internet blackouts. Museveni ultimately won with 60% of the vote, but the process was criticized internationally, raising concerns about Uganda's democratic future.