His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces, has delivered a stern message to officers within the Force, urging them to refrain from engaging in any form of corruption that could sully the reputation of the UPDF.
President Museveni made these remarks during the 13th annual Tarehe Sita Thanksgiving, which took place at the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds in Kampala. The event’s theme, “How can I repay the Lord for all His benefits to me?” was inspired by Psalms 116:12.
Reflecting on the history of the Front for National Salvation (FRONASA) and the National Resistance Army (NRA), President Museveni attributed their successes to the strong ideology and spirituality that fostered a disdain for corruption within their ranks.
He commended the Minister, Chief of Defence Forces, and the organizing committee for their efforts throughout the army week and the Tarehe Sita celebrations, including the culminating Thanksgiving breakfast.
President Museveni also acknowledged and expressed gratitude towards the children of fallen soldiers of the UPDF who were in attendance, promising to arrange a meeting with their leaders in the future.
Addressing the gathering, the Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs, Honourable Vincent Bamulangaki Ssempijja, urged the UPDF to uphold the values instilled by its founders and highlighted the Force’s achievements in combating negative elements within the country.
General Wilson Mbasu Mbadi, the Chief of Defence Forces, emphasized the distinctive nature of the UPDF, attributing it to a clear ideology derived from visionary and committed leadership. He noted the Force’s evolution into a more productive entity, engaging in sectors such as production, creativity, and innovation.
General Mbadi assured the President of the UPDF’s ongoing efforts to enhance its capacity and professionalism, aiming to contribute significantly to the country’s development. He mentioned plans to introduce a bill in Parliament to improve military personnel accommodation, education, and welfare services.
Mrs. Patience Museveni Rwabwogo, the guest speaker for the event, lauded the UPDF for its professionalism, education, civility, and utilization of cutting-edge technology in safeguarding the nation and maintaining peace and stability.
Mrs. Rwabwogo expressed gratitude to the founders of the UPDF for their sacrifices during the liberation struggle, which ultimately led to peace and freedom in the country. She highlighted the UPDF’s role as an ‘exporter of peace,’ citing its contributions to peacekeeping efforts in neighboring countries.
The event was attended by notable figures including former Prime Minister of Uganda, Hon. Amama Mbabazi, Permanent Secretary of MoDVA, Ms. Rosette Byengoma, Undersecretary of Finance, Ms. Edith Butuuro, Lt Gen Peter Elwelu, Generals, Senior UPDF officers, Religious Leaders, and Children and relatives of fallen UPDF soldiers, among others.
