By Kobusiinge Monica
Kampala: On Friday, November 1 2024, the Algerian Embassy in Kampala held an official celebrations to mark the 70th anniversary of Algeria’s historic revolution against French colonial rule.
The event, hosted by the Algerian Ambassador, H.E. Amokrane Mourad, at his residence on Kyadondo Road, Nakasero, in Kampala, was graced by Uganda’s Minister of Internal Affairs, Gen. Kahinda Otafiire, as the chief guest. He was accompanied by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Henry Oryem Okello, among other government officials.
The colourful evening event attracted distinguished guests, including ambassadors and diplomats from the U.S., French, South Africa and Sahrawi embassies, among others who who were treated to an exquisite cocktail dinner featuring mainly Algerian cuisine.
The only invite event was also graced by our very own Chief Spy, Andrew Irumba Katusabe, renowned Pan-Africanist and investigative journalist, who is also the Founding speaker and Chairman Of the Pan-African Pyramid, a non government organization based in Uganda.
Speaking during the event, Minister Kahinda Otafiire highlighted the Algerian Revolution as a monumental struggle for independence which was not only a defining moment for the people of Algeria, but also served as a beacon of hope for all African nations who were yearning for self-determination at the time.
He further noted that the revolution was a symbol of courage and unity for the Algerian people as they fought against French colonial oppression adding that the 70 years celebration is not just for the victory of Algeria, but the spirit of Pan-Africanism that has continued to inspire generations across the continent to pursue freedom, dignity and sovereignty.
The Minister also re-affirmed Uganda’s deep and abiding friendship with Algeria.
‘Our two nations share a common history of resisting colonial domination and advocating for African solidarity in global affairs. Uganda recognizes the vital role Algeria has played in promoting peace and security on the continent and we are committed to strengthening our bilateral cooperation in areas such as security, trade among others” he noted.
More About Algerian Revolution.
The Algerian Revolution of 1954, also known as the Algerian War, was a violent conflict between France and the Algerian National Liberation Front (FLN) that lasted from 1954 to 1962. The war resulted in Algeria gaining its independence from France.
Here are some key events and details about the Algerian Revolution:
The beginning
The war began on November 1, 1954, when the FLN launched a series of attacks on French military and police targets.
The FLN
The FLN was the vanguard organization of the Algerian independence movement. The FLN used political agitation and provided services like education, health care, and welfare to rural populations.
The French response
The French government attempted to improve the social well-being of the Muslim population through a reform campaign.
The international context
The war was influenced by international conditions, including the defeat of France in the Battle of Dien Bien Phu in Vietnam, the emergence of armed struggle in Tunisia and Morocco, and the decline of France’s military power.
The change in French leadership
In 1958, Charles de Gaulle became the leader of France, and began to advocate for self-determination in Algeria.
The referendum
In 1961, a referendum was held in both France and Algeria on the question of self-determination and Algeria gained independence on July 5, 1962.
The French ambassador to Uganda H.E Xavier Sticker was in attendence to support the celebration and taste the special Algerian cuisines.
