CELEBRATING THE 70th ANNIVERSARY OF THE ALGERIAN REVOLUTION OF 1954.

Last Friday, 1st November 2024, we (AAYC) joined our Algerian friends in celebrating the 70th Anniversary of the Algerian Revolution of 1954; also known as the National Day of Algeria, under the theme Glorious November, Loyalty and renewal. We were hosted by H.E Mourad Amokrane; the Ambassador of The People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria to The Republic of Uganda at his residence in Nakasero, Kampala.

The Ambassador welcomed the guest of honor; Hon. Kahinda Otafire- the Minister of Internal Affairs, as well as all other dignitaries present. He proceeded to address us and expressed how important this celebration is to Algeria as a country. This day comes with the most precious and fondest memories among Algerian citizens as it brought freedom from colonialism that had ensued for decades. The struggle had spun over decades since the colonialists had invaded Algeria. This day; therefore, signified the real epitome of determination of the Algerian people in the restoration of their homeland by doing away with any form of foreign domination.

He paid tribute to and appreciated the different individuals and countries from Africa, Middle east, Europe, Asia and America that reported on and contributed to the Algerian Revolution. The revolution was of great impact to the African continent as it brought about African Solidarity. Amb. Mourad went on to say that as the African continent, we still have a long way to go in fighting colonialism and taking back our power. Neo colonialism in Africa is being manifested by divisions amongst the African people, something that we must eradicate while upholding that African countries do not dominate one another, and that the future of Africa can only be shaped by the will of Africans.

His Excellency concluded his address by thanking the Ugandan Authorities for the facilities granted to him to achieve his objectives for Algeria including the ever developing bi-lateral relations between Uganda and Algeria that now cover new areas of cooperation. The two countries are working together to promote peace at regional and international levels, strengthen cooperation in areas of trade, investment, annual scholarships for advanced training in various areas such as medicine, pharmacy, dental surgery in various Algerian universities to mention but a few.

He proceeded to call upon and introduce the Guest of Honor; Hon. Kahinde Otafiire- the Minister of Internal Affairs of Uganda, who extended his warmest salutations and congratulations to the Algerian people on this occasion. He stated that the revolution served as a legacy for us all, and recognized the role that Algeria has played in championing peace, Unity and cooperation in the African Union and other platforms.

The guest of honor, in his address stated that in as far as our bilateral relations go, Uganda and Algeria have had relations anchored in dialogue and Pan-African solidarity. H.E President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni visited Algeria in March 2023 leading to the signing of many bi-lateral agreements in areas of Agriculture, energy, trade and higher education. Progress has been made between the countries in the export of our dairy products, coffee and other sectors, which has improved the livelihoods of the people in both countries. He also highlighted the advancement of scholarships which showed a commitment to Uganda through significant human capital development. Hon. Otafire concluded with a toast reiterating that Uganda stands with Algeria in this celebration and look forward to more collaboration for a brighter future for Africa.

The colorful occasion was adorned by a diversity of dignitaries among whom included the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs- Hon. Henry Okello Oryem, Ambassadors, other members of the Diplomatic Corps and delegations.

As AAYC, we were delighted to celebrate with Algeria and could not pass up the opportunity to renew our partnership and commitment in advancing our shared goals in advocating for peace, unity and development of Africa through the African and Arab Youth as a whole.



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