(Kampala) – General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Chief of Defence Forces, led the groundbreaking ceremony for a new high-tech headquarters for the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs and the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) in Mbuya on August 27, 2024. This new facility is set to significantly advance the operational capabilities of the UPDF with modern technology and infrastructure.
During the ceremony, General Kainerugaba explained the strategic importance of the new headquarters. He noted that housing the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MoDVA) in a modern setting would directly enhance operational efficiency and coordination. The new headquarters is designed to support contemporary defense strategies with cutting-edge technology.
General Kainerugaba expressed confidence in the UPDF’s leadership and its commitment to excellence in defense and security. He highlighted that the new headquarters would symbolize the nation’s strength and resilience. The General also acknowledged the support of the Ugandan government, especially President and Commander-in-Chief, for their role in advancing the project. He expressed hope that the construction would be completed within two years, faster than the initially estimated three years.
Major General Jack Bakasumba, Chief of Joint Staff, addressed the significance of the project, noting that it represents a major step towards professionalizing the UPDF. He credited General Kainerugaba for his leadership and strategic guidance, which has been crucial in bringing the project to fruition. Major General Bakasumba reflected on the long-standing need for a decent headquarters for the MoDVA and UPDF and expressed satisfaction that this need is finally being met.
Mrs. Edith Butuuro, the Ministry’s Under-secretary of Finance and Administration, provided details on the project’s funding. She announced that the estimated cost of the headquarters is Shs94 billion, with an initial allocation of Shs20 billion. Mrs. Butuuro praised General Kainerugaba for his leadership in advancing the project and committed to mobilizing additional funds to ensure its timely completion.
The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by several key figures, including Lt Gen Sam Okiding, Deputy Chief of Defence Forces; Lt Gen Charles Okidi, Commander UPDF – Air Force; Maj Gen BD Mugisha, Commander Special Forces Command; and other senior officers and officials from the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs.
The new headquarters is expected to enhance the UPDF’s ability to respond to national security challenges and improve coordination among military and defense agencies.
