Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Chief of Defence Forces and Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations, praised the recently promoted senior officers of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) for their dedication and contributions to national defense. He presided over the decoration ceremony for five Brigadier Generals and eighteen Colonels at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs headquarters in Mbuya.
During the ceremony, Gen. Kainerugaba highlighted the officers’ exceptional teamwork, resilience, and integrity in leadership. He acknowledged their hard work, sacrifice, and commitment that led them to this important milestone. He emphasized that their promotion was not just a recognition of their past achievements but also a vote of confidence in their potential to continue leading the country.
He reminded the officers of the responsibilities and expectations that come with their new ranks. He stated that they now carry the weight of the military’s greatness and the unwavering support and respect of their colleagues, subordinates, and families. He urged them to continue serving with dedication as the nation looks up to them.
Brig. Gen. Wilberforce Sserunkuma, Deputy Commander of the 3rd Infantry Division, spoke on behalf of the promoted officers. He expressed gratitude to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the Commander-in-Chief, and the UPDF leadership for the promotions. Brig. Gen. Sserunkuma reminded his fellow officers that their new ranks come with added responsibilities. He emphasized that higher ranks in the military organization come with increased personnel and resources under their command. He challenged his peers to embrace their new responsibilities with zeal and determination.
He also recognized the support and encouragement from their families, acknowledging that time spent away from home due to operations, training, and deployments is a significant sacrifice.
The ceremony was attended by several high-ranking officials, including Lt. Gen. Sam Okiding, Deputy Chief of Defence Forces; Lt. Gen. Charles Okidi, Commander of the UPDF Air Force; Lt. Gen. Kayanja Muhanga, Commander of Land Forces; Maj. Gen. Jack Bakasumba, Chief of Joint Staff; Ms. Edith Butuuro, Under Secretary for Finance and Administration; family members; and other General and Senior Officers of the UPDF and officials from the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs.
