Oct 09, 2022
Uganda Independence Day 2022
This Doodle’s Key Themes
Happy 60th Independence Day, Uganda! Today’s Doodle celebrates the moment when Uganda gained independence from the United Kingdom. On this day in 1962, the British government named Uganda a free state among the international community. Dr. Milton Apollo Obole, leader of the Uganda People’s Congress, became the first Prime Minister.
Uganda first came under control of the Imperial British East Africa Company in 1888. They annexed Buganda, a Bunta kingdom within the country, and surrounding territories to create the Uganda Protectorate. After World War II, Britain’s hold began to loosen and calls for independence swept across Africa. Many states gained their independence during this time, including Ghana, Somalia, Nigeria, Sierra Leone and more. Ugandans wanted the same for their country.
In September 1962, the Ugandan Constitutional Conference took place in London to help start the nation’s journey to independence. By the end of the conference in October, Uganda was a free state. A year later, in October 1963, a democratic republic was established with Buganda’s King Mutesa II as its first official president.
To celebrate, a large parade is held every year at the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds in Kampala. The president delivers a holiday speech, recognizing goals for the nation’s future. Other local communities host their own celebrations, featuring ceremonial dances, live concerts and marches. Uganda’s black, yellow and red national flag, like the one waving in today’s artwork, can be seen throughout the country during this holiday.
Happy Independence Day, Uganda!
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