Uganda marks Heroes’ Day under Ebola restrictions amid growing calls for political, civil reforms

For the first time in three years, Uganda today commemorates its 37th Heroes’ Day “scientifically.” The traditional pomp, mammoth crowds, military parades, medal-awarding ceremonies, and rotational district-hosted celebrations have been shelved. Instead, the country marks the day under a cloud of health anxiety and intensifying political debate.
The abrupt shift follows a recent spike in Ebola cases, mirroring the dark days of the Covid-19 pandemic when the 2020, 2021, and 2022 anniversaries were forced into strict, socially distanced setups at the Kololo National Ceremonial Grounds.