Museveni Bids Farewell to 19 UPDF Generals, Offers Retirement Advice

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the Commander-in-Chief of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), recently presided over a significant retirement ceremony at State House, Entebbe, honoring 19 UPDF Generals.

During the event, President Museveni extended his congratulations to the departing officers, acknowledging their substantial contributions to the UPDF’s growth and the nation’s security. He emphasized the importance of the values they upheld throughout their careers, including discipline, patriotism, integrity, and commitment to duty.

Transitioning to practical advice for their retirement, the President urged the generals to manage their finances prudently. He suggested secure investment avenues like treasury bonds, which offer steady returns without active management. For those with land, he recommended goat rearing as a simple, safe, and sustainable venture due to its ready market and low input costs.

President Museveni also encouraged the retirees to consider placing savings in fixed accounts to generate income for other projects, such as fish farming or rental housing. He stressed the importance of “planting seeds where they germinate” and using the harvest for further development.

The ceremony recognized the distinguished service of officers including Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, Lt. Gen. Charles Otema Awany, Lt. Gen. Charles Angina, and Maj. Gens. Abel Kandiho, Geoffrey Tumusiime Katsigazi, Apollo Kasiita Gowa, and Leopold Kyanda, among others.

On behalf of the retirees, Gen. Katumba Wamala expressed pride in handing over a disciplined and respected institution built through sacrifice. He urged the UPDF leadership to protect this legacy by upholding professionalism, integrity, and respecting the civilian population, emphasizing the crucial bond between the army and the citizens.

The Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka, commended the retiring officers for their years of service and encouraged them to continue serving as ambassadors for the UPDF and wealth creation in their post-service lives.

These generals have served in various critical capacities, contributing significantly to Uganda’s defence and security infrastructure. The ceremony underscored their enduring role in national development.

This information is based on a report from State House Uganda.