Uganda is gearing up for a major national event as preparations intensify for the swearing-in and inauguration of President-elect Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, scheduled for May 12, 2026, at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds.
The announcement was made by the Minister for the Presidency, Milly Babirye Babalanda, during a joint press briefing with the Secretary General of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), Richard Todwong.
Babalanda said the ceremony will officially usher in Museveni’s new five-year term running from 2026 to 2031, following the January 15, 2026 general elections in which he won 71.65 percent of the vote.
She described the inauguration as a key milestone in Uganda’s democratic calendar, noting that preparations are already in advanced stages to ensure a smooth and memorable event.
According to government officials, the ceremony is expected to attract broad participation from both local and international guests. So far, at least 30 foreign delegations and 15 revolutionary parties from across the world have confirmed attendance.
The guest list will also include Members of Parliament, diplomats, cultural and religious leaders, civil servants, and citizens from different parts of the country.
Security agencies have stepped up nationwide operations, particularly in Kampala and surrounding areas, to ensure safety before, during, and after the event.
The Uganda Police Force, working jointly with the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and other specialized units, will oversee security arrangements. Authorities say detailed traffic and movement guidelines will be issued to the public in due course.
To widen access, the inauguration will be broadcast live on major television stations, including Uganda Broadcasting Corporation, and streamed across multiple digital platforms. Public viewing screens will also be set up in selected parts of the city to allow citizens to follow proceedings in real time.
NRM Secretary General Richard Todwong confirmed that May 12 will be observed as a public holiday, enabling Ugandans to take part in the celebrations. He said the party’s victory was decisive, citing its strong performance in parliamentary and local government elections nationwide.
Government officials also highlighted key achievements under the NRM administration, including improvements in peace and security, infrastructure development, expanded electricity coverage, and progress in health and education sectors.
They further noted a decline in poverty levels and an increase in life expectancy, attributing these changes to ongoing socio-economic programs such as the Parish Development Model, Operation Wealth Creation, and Emyooga, which are aimed at boosting household incomes and supporting wealth creation.
The inauguration will also usher in the swearing-in of Members of Parliament and other elected leaders. Officials say government priorities under the new term will continue to focus on implementing the NRM manifesto and sustaining ongoing development projects as Uganda enters another phase of its governance cycle.
