UPDF Commends Retiring General Officers for Distinguished Service

The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has commended General Officers due for retirement later this year for their distinguished, dedicated, and selfless service to the nation.

The recognition was made during a documentation exercise involving 20 General Officers at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs headquarters in Mbuya, marking a key step in the official retirement process.

Representing the Chief of Joint Staff, the Joint Staff Human Resource Management, Maj Gen James Kinalwa, praised the officers for their significant contribution to national security and institutional development, describing their service as a cornerstone in the growth of the UPDF and Uganda’s stability.

“Your sacrifices, commitment, and leadership have significantly contributed to peace, stability, and the strengthening of our military institution,” Maj Gen Kinalwa said.

He noted that retirement should not be viewed as an end to usefulness, but rather as a transition into another phase of continued service to society.

“Retirement is not the end of usefulness or relevance, but a transition into another important phase where you continue serving your families, communities, and the nation,” he added.

Maj Gen Kinalwa emphasized that the experience, discipline, strategic thinking, and integrity accumulated by the retiring officers remain a valuable national asset that can continue benefiting society.

He further observed that the officers had served with courage, resilience, and patriotism under demanding operational conditions, contributing to military doctrine development, policy formulation, and leadership growth within the force.

“Many of you commanded troops in difficult operational environments, mentored younger officers, strengthened civil-military relations, and contributed to regional and international peace and security initiatives,” he said.

He encouraged the retiring generals to continue offering their expertise in advisory, diplomatic, academic, and mentorship roles whenever called upon.

“As you transition into civilian life, remain ambassadors of the UPDF and uphold the values of discipline, professionalism, and service,” he urged.

The officers form part of Batch 16 of the UPDF retirement programme and include one General, two Lieutenant Generals, four Major Generals, and thirteen Brigadier Generals.

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