national 12 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Gen. Muhoozi Urges UPDF Retirees to Continue National Service
Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has encouraged 222 retiring UPDF officers to see their transition into civilian life as a new phase of national contribution, emphasizing patriotism and community leadership. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/continue-serving-the-nation-gen-muhoozi-urges-updf-retirees-5555928
The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has urged 222 retiring senior officers of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) to view their retirement not as an end to service, but as a shift towards civic leadership and continued national contribution.
During a ceremony at the UPDF Joint Services Headquarters in Mbuya, Kampala, Gen. Kainerugaba, speaking to officers ranging from Colonels to Majors under Batch 16, encouraged them to act as “ambassadors of patriotism, discipline, and the unity of our people.” He emphasized their role in mentoring younger generations, fostering peace, and supporting local development initiatives using their acquired skills.
Gen. Kainerugaba also provided advice on financial management during this transition, cautioning the officers to manage their retirement benefits wisely through careful planning, prudent investment, and sustained financial discipline. He acknowledged their significant service, stating that their leadership had been instrumental in building a resilient foundation for the UPDF’s ongoing transformation into a respected continental defence force.
The CDF highlighted the UPDF’s evolution beyond conventional warfare to address contemporary challenges, including terrorism, cybercrime, and climate-related disasters. He stressed the force’s need to remain technologically advanced and adaptable to emerging threats, acknowledging the crucial support from the government and the Commander-in-Chief, President Yoweri Museveni.
Maj. Gen. James Kinalwa, head of Joint Staff – Human Resource Management, described the retirement as part of the UPDF’s personnel renewal strategy, framing it as an opening of new doors. Several notable officers, including Col. Kajungu Rutinampora and Col. David Mugisha, were among those honored.