National Heroes' Day is a public holiday in Uganda, and it is observed on June 9 each year. The holiday honors all those who sacrificed themselves to better the lives of the Ugandan people and those who fought on both sides of the Ugandan Bush War.
Uganda People's Congress (UPC) party led by Milton Obote won the 1980 election, but the election was widely believed to have been rigged. A number of oppositions launched armed rebellions against Milton Obote's government.
In 1985, Milton Obote was overthrown and replaced by his general Tito Okello, who formed a new government with his followers and several armed opposition groups. However, National Resistance Movement (NRA) led by Yoweri Museveni refused to compromise with the new government.
On January 26, 1986, the National Resistance Movement (NRA) launched a series of attacks and captured Kampala, Uganda's capital, effectively ending Tito Okello's regime. Yoweri Museveni declared himself president of Uganda on January 29, 1986.
National Heroes' Day coincides with the death anniversary of Edidian Mukiibi Luttamaguzi, who was murdered on June 9, 1981 during the regime of Milton Obote. This was the main cause of the Ugandan Bush War.
The following is the list of National Heroes' Day in Uganda from 2022 to 2026.
| Holiday | Date | Weekday |
|---|---|---|
| National Heroes' Day | Jun 09, 2022 | Thursday |
| National Heroes' Day | Jun 09, 2023 | Friday |
| National Heroes' Day | Jun 09, 2024 | Sunday |
| National Heroes' Day | Jun 09, 2025 | Monday |
| National Heroes' Day | Jun 09, 2026 | Tuesday |
Please check more public holidays in Uganda: