General Muhoozi Keinerugaba, Chief of Defence Forces and Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations has commended the recently promoted senior officers of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) for their unwavering dedication and remarkable contribution to national defence.
Gen Kainerugaba was presiding over the decoration ceremony of the promoted Five Brigadier Generals and Eighteen Colonels at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MODVA) headquarters in Mbuya where he highlighted their exceptional teamwork, resilience, and integrity in leadership. “Your journey to this pinnacle has been marked by hard work, sacrifice, and commitment. Your promotion is not only a recognition of your past achievements but also a vote of confidence in your potential to continue to lead in the country,” he said.
He reminded them of the responsibilities and the expectations that come with the new ranks they have attained and said, “As you take upon your new rank and role, you not only carry the weight of greatness of the military but also the unwavering support and respect of your colleagues, subordinates, and family. The nation looks up to you and expects you to continue to serve with dedication.”
Brig Gen Wilberforce Sserunkuma, the Deputy Commander 3 Infantry Division, who spoke on behalf of the promoted officers and expressed gratitude to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, Commander-in-Chief, and UPDF leadership for the promotions.
Brig Gen Sserunkuma reminded his fellow officers that their new ranks come with added responsibility, “As per the military organisation, the higher the rank, the more the scope of responsibility in terms of increased personnel and resources under your welfare. I therefore challenge you not to rest but rather to take up the added responsibility with a lot of zeal and determination of our mighty army.”
He also recognised the support and encouragement from the officers’ families, acknowledging that the time spent away from home is due to operations, training, and deployments.
In attendance were Lt Gen Sam Okiding, Deputy Chief of Defence Forces; Lt Gen Charles Okidi, Commander UPDF -Air Force; Lt Gen Kayanja Muhanga, Commander Land Force; Maj Gen Jack Bakasumba, Chief of Joint Staff; Ms. Edith Butuuro, Under Secretary for Finance and Administration; family members; and General and Senior Officers of the UPDF and Officials of MODVA.