Thousands of Ugandans yesterday filled the iconic Kololo Ceremonial Grounds for the vibrant “Yoga Yoga Jajja” celebration, a massive event organized to mark the re-election victory of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
The celebration followed Museveni’s win in the January 2026 general elections, where the Yoweri Kaguta Museveni secured 7,946,772 votes, representing 71.65% of the valid ballots, according to the Electoral Commission of Uganda.
The full-day gathering, organized by State House Local Content Unit head Aminah Mukalazi, attracted large crowds from across the country who came to celebrate, give thanks, and express support for the President. Organizers described the event as both a thanksgiving ceremony and a symbol of national unity.
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports Janet Kataha Museveni, used the occasion to thank Ugandans for their continued support and to renew his call for wealth creation, accountability, and unity.
“I greet you all. I want to thank our daughter Aminah Mukalazi for organizing these celebrations, and I thank all the groups that participated in the campaign. I also thank all Ugandans who supported the NRM,” the President said.
Museveni also expressed gratitude to God for guiding Uganda through decades of political struggles and victories.
“For the last 55 years, since 1971, we have been in struggles, and God has always given us victories,” he noted.
While celebrating the electoral victory, the President reminded Ugandans that economic empowerment must remain a national priority.
He emphasized that prosperity depends on job and wealth creation in sectors such as commercial agriculture, manufacturing, services, and ICT.
“Every adult in Uganda should ensure that he or she is engaged in productive work,” Museveni said.
He noted that poverty in some households continues to push young people onto the streets and reiterated the government’s long-standing wealth creation campaign, “Bonna Bagagawale.”
The President pointed to the Parish Development Model as a critical tool for helping Ugandans transition from subsistence living into the money economy.
“About 70% of Ugandans are now in the money economy, but about 30% remain. That is why programs like the Parish Development Model are important,” he said.
Museveni also urged citizens to monitor government programs in their communities to ensure funds reach the intended beneficiaries.
The President issued a stern warning against corruption, especially individuals allegedly selling government jobs.
“Do not tolerate corruption. We hear about people selling government jobs. Why don’t you report them so they are arrested?” he said.
He also raised concerns about drug theft in some health facilities, urging communities to demand accountability.
“These health centers are here in Uganda. If there is theft of drugs, the people must demand answers,” Museveni emphasized.
Museveni assured the public that improving Uganda’s road network remains a government priority.
He also highlighted the importance of promoting local content in national infrastructure projects to boost Ugandan businesses.
“For example, the Standard Gauge Railway will require materials such as cement sleepers, and these can be produced locally,” he said.
Vice President Jessica Alupo congratulated the President and thanked Ugandans for supporting peace and development.
“Your Excellency, thank you for steering the campaign teams with excellence, which enabled us to secure a victory that was not contested,” she said.
Alupo also applauded Janet Kataha Museveni for her leadership in the education sector, particularly following the recent release of Senior Six results.
Event organizer Aminah Mukalazi said the massive turnout demonstrated the strong public support for President Museveni’s leadership.
“Mzee and Maama, the people are very happy that you are here today. This gathering shows how much Ugandans appreciate your leadership,” she said.
Meanwhile, renowned preacher Robert Kayanja led prayers of thanksgiving, thanking God for the President’s life and Uganda’s continued stability.
“We do not take it for granted that God has given Mzee and Maama life and granted them victory,” Pastor Kayanja said.
He also prayed for regional unity and progress toward the East African Federation.
The celebration brought together several senior government officials, including Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja and Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, alongside ministers, Members of Parliament, religious leaders, cultural figures, and thousands of supporters.
The “Yoga Yoga Jajja” event featured prayers, entertainment, and testimonies, turning Kololo into a vibrant national celebration of political victory and renewed calls for economic transformation.