By Dr. Kivumbi Earnest Benjamin, L.H.D. (Hon.) Updated at 1525 EAT on Monday 3rd November 2025

Kampala, Uganda — Algeria is commemorating Revolution Day, the country’s national holiday that marks the beginning of its historic war of independence against French colonial rule. The day, celebrated every November 1, remains a powerful symbol of national unity, sacrifice, and liberation.

Revolution Day — recalls the night of November 1, 1954, when members of the National Liberation Front (FLN) launched 70 coordinated attacks on French military and police targets across Algeria. The strikes signaled the start of the Algerian War of Independence, a fierce struggle that lasted nearly eight years and culminated in Algeria’s independence on July 5, 1962.

Historical Background

Algeria’s path to freedom was rooted in centuries of foreign domination. From the early 1500s, the country was under the partial rule of the Ottoman Empire until it was invaded and colonized by France in 1830. Unlike most French colonies, Algeria was treated as an integral part of France, with European settlers encouraged to migrate and occupy fertile lands.

By the mid-20th century, resentment among the indigenous Muslim population had reached breaking point, fueled by land dispossession, political exclusion, and cultural repression. The uprising of 1954 became the turning point — a movement that united Algerians under the call for independence.

Although France initially managed to suppress the revolt, the harshness of its counterinsurgency campaign eroded both domestic and international support for colonial rule, leading to Algeria’s liberation eight years later.

Diplomatic Celebration in Kampala

To mark the anniversary, the Ambassador of Algeria to Uganda, H.E. Amokrane Mourad, has organized a diplomatic ceremony at his residence in Kololo, Kampala, on Tuesday. The event will bring together members of the diplomatic corps, Ugandan government officials, and friends of Algeria to celebrate the enduring legacy of the revolution.

HICGI News Agency will provide live coverage and updates from the event as Algeria and its partners reflect on the spirit of independence, unity, and national pride that continues to define the North African nation.