The Commander-in-Chief of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces  General Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has cautioned Officers in the Force to desist from all forms of corruption that may tarnish the name of the UPDF.

President Museveni was speaking at the 13th annual Tarehe Sita Thanksgiving that was held at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds in Kampala under the theme: “How can I repay the Lord for all His benefits to me?” that was drawn from Psalms 116:12.

The President attributed the successes since the days of the Front for National Salvation (FRONASA), and National Resistance Army (NRA) to the ideology and spirituality which made them a strong force that despised corruption.

He commended the Minister, Chief of Defence Forces and the organising committee for their efforts during the army week and the Tarehe Sita celebrations and its climax, the Thanksgiving breakfast.

His Excellency also acknowledged and recognised the children of the fallen soldiers of the UPDF who were present during Thanksgiving and promised to have a meeting with their leaders.

In his speech, the Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs, Honourable Vincent Bamulangaki Ssempijja implored the UPDF to always remember the values of its founders and underscored the achievements of the Force against the negative elements in the country.

The Chief of Defence Forces, General Wilson Mbasu Mbadi said that while Uganda has had several armies in the past, what separates the UPDF is its clear ideology from which it derives its principles and values, which are driven by visionary and committed leadership.

He noted that the UPDF is now a more productive force unlike in the past since they now indulge in sectors of production, creativity and innovation.

Gen Mbadi informed the President that the army will continue to enhance its capacity and build a professional, efficient, effective and accountable force that will contribute to the development of the country.

He said that soon, a bill will be presented to Parliament that will address the improvement in accommodation for military personnel, education and welfare services.

The day’s guest speaker, Mrs. Patience Museveni Rwabwogo applauded the UPDF for being professional, educated, and civil and for their use of state-of-the-art technology in its endeavours of protecting the country and ensuring peace and stability.

Mrs Rwabwogo thanked the founders of the UPDF for their sacrifice during the struggle that led to Liberation and the attainment of Peace and freedom in the country.

She observed that UPDF is recognised as an ‘exporter of peace’ because of its efforts for peace and stability rendered to the neighbouring countries.

The function was graced by, the former Prime Minister of Uganda, Hon. Amama Mbabazi, the Permanent Secretary MoDVA, Ms Rosette Byengoma, the Undersecretary Finance, Ms Edith Butuuro, Lt Gen Peter Elwelu, Generals, Senior UPDF officers, Religious Leaders, Children and relatives of fallen UPDF soldiers, among others.