By Jamirah Khassim
Africa-Press – Uganda. As Uganda marks National Heroes Day today, Imam Idi Kasozi has sparked national debate by questioning whether the country has narrowed its definition of heroism, sidelining cultural, civilian, and non-military figures in favor of a militarized narrative.
Imam Kasozi challenged the current direction of the holiday, originally established in 1995 to recognize a broad range of contributors to Uganda’s nation-building, including statesmen like Milton Obote.
However, Kasozi noted that in recent years, the spotlight has shifted almost exclusively to military and political actors.
A 2021 study by the Makerere University Institute of Social Research supports his claim, revealing that cultural and civilian heroes are increasingly absent from the national narrative.
Data from the Uganda Bureau of Statistics further confirm this trend, showing that 70% of individuals honored since 2000 are linked to military achievements, largely shaped by the legacy of the National Resistance Army’s victory in 1986.
“This day was meant to reflect the diversity of Uganda’s struggle and triumphs,” said Kasozi.
“Where are the teachers, the doctors, the artists, the community leaders? They are heroes too, but they’re being written out of history.”
His remarks come amid growing concern over media freedom in Uganda.
A 2023 Freedom House report criticized government influence over media outlets, suggesting that alternative perspectives on national identity and history are often underrepresented.
As Uganda looks toward the future, Kasozi’s challenge invites a deeper national conversation: What kind of heroes does the country choose to remember?
Source: Nilepost News
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