news 4 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda Suspends Public Gatherings and Medal Ceremonies for 2026 Heroes Day Amidst Ebola Concerns
Uganda will observe Heroes Day on June 9, 2026, with a highly restricted scientific ceremony due to the Ebola pandemic, suspending traditional public gatherings and medal awards. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/no-public-gathering-medals-suspended-for-2026-heroes-day-5485446
Heroes Day 2026 commemorations in Uganda will look significantly different this year, with public gatherings and the traditional awarding of medals suspended. Minister for the Presidency, Ms. Milly Babirye Babalanda, announced that only 25 guests will be permitted at the scientific ceremony to be held at State House, Entebbe.
This decision stems from the implementation of strict Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) across the country in response to the ongoing Ebola pandemic. Citing the World Health Organization’s declaration of the outbreak as a public health emergency of international concern, Ms. Babalanda explained that large public congregations, like the one usually held at Kololo, are deemed too risky.
The government has instead encouraged Ugandans to participate in prayers and thanksgiving services within their respective places of worship. Specific days have been designated for various religious communities: Moslems will hold prayers on Friday, June 5, 2026, Seventh-day Adventists on Saturday, June 5, and other Christian denominations on Sunday, June 7.
Despite the altered format, Heroes Day remains a public holiday. The day will be celebrated under the theme “Protecting the gains as we make a qualitative leap into high-middle-income status,” the same theme adopted for the recent presidential inauguration. The 25 attendees at the main ceremony represent the three arms of government, religious leaders, and the Luweero Triangle Veteran Association. The President’s message will be broadcast nationally via UBC and other media outlets.