(Jinja) – The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has issued a warning to Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) due for retirement at the end of this month. In a statement from the office of the army spokesperson, the UPDF urged soldiers to remain cautious about potential scams targeting their pension and gratuity payments.
According to the UPDF leadership, scammers have been actively trying to lure retirees into dubious projects, falsely promising financial returns in exchange for access to their retirement funds. The army has expressed concern that many soldiers, unaware of these schemes, could fall victim to these fraudsters.
This warning was delivered by Lt Col Onesmus Amanya, the Deputy Director in charge of Pensions, during an ongoing documentation and sensitization exercise at Gadaffi Barracks in Jinja. The exercise, aimed at Non-Commissioned Officers from various divisions, including the Air Force, Special Forces Command, and the Magamaga Cantonment, is part of the UPDF’s broader effort to protect retirees from financial exploitation.
Lt Col Amanya emphasized the importance of solidarity among soldiers, urging them to support one another during their transition to civilian life. He stressed that comradeship and mutual assistance are key to overcoming challenges and ensuring a smooth adjustment to retirement.
To further reassure the officers, Lt Col Amanya highlighted improvements in the pension payment process. He explained that the system has been streamlined, with payments now being made directly to retirees without the need for intermediaries, reducing the risk of delay or mismanagement.
So far, more than 140 officers from the Uganda People’s Defence Air Forces (UPDAF) have retired this year. In April, President Yoweri Museveni, who also serves as the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, personally saw off the first group of five senior officers at a formal ceremony held at State House, Entebbe. This group included Brig Gen Jesse Kamunwanire, Maj Gen Fred Ociti Tolit, Brig Gen Ssenkumba Eugene Ssebugwawo, Brig Gen Emmanuel Kyamuzigita Rwashande, and Brig Gen Maximus Gumisiriza.
Earlier this month, another 144 senior officers were officially retired from active service. Among them were 44 Colonels, nine Lieutenant Colonels, and 91 Majors. The formal send-off ceremony took place on September 9th at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs headquarters.
The UPDF said it continues its efforts to ensure that retiring soldiers receive their benefits promptly and without undue interference. Retirees have been urged to remain vigilant against those who may seek to exploit them during this important phase of their lives.
| Rank | Number of Officers Retired |
|---|---|
| Brigadiers | 5 |
| Colonels | 44 |
| Lieutenant Colonels | 9 |
| Majors | 91 |
