Parliament Approves Salary Boost for UPDF Officers
Parliament has approved a budget of Shs962.23 billion for the enhancement of their salaries in a significant move aimed at improving the welfare of Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) officers.
The decision was presented by Hon. Wilson Kajwengye, Chairperson of the Defence Committee of Parliament, during the consideration of the defence ministerial policy statement on Thursday, April 11, 2024.
| Rank | Current Salary (Ugx) | Approved Salary (Ugx) |
|---|---|---|
| Private | 485,279 | 828,426 |
| Sergeant | 514,175 | 1,387,992 |
| Warrant Officer Class 1 | 591,715 | 2,096,800 |
| Captain | 845,638 | 2,736,333 |
Under the new salary structure, there will be significant increases across various ranks. For instance, private officers will see their monthly pay rise from the current Shs485,279 to Shs828,426. Similarly, sergeants will receive an increase from Shs514,175 to Shs1,387,992, while warrant officers class 1 will enjoy a rise from Shs591,715 to Shs2,096,800. Captains will see their salaries increased from Shs845,638 to Shs2,736,333.
The proposal received widespread support from Members of Parliament, who hailed it as a long-overdue recognition of the sacrifices and dedication of UPDF officers in safeguarding national security.
However, Rose Obigah (NRM, Terego District) raised concerns about the disparity in salary enhancements between UPDF officers and other security personnel such as police and prison officers. She emphasized the need for equitable compensation across all security agencies.
Amidst the discussions, MPs also expressed apprehensions regarding the deployment of policemen and security personnel nationwide. Eddie Kwizera (NRM, Bukimbiri County) highlighted instances where insufficient manpower hindered the resolution of criminal issues, stressing the urgent need for increased personnel in law enforcement agencies.
Presiding over the session, Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa acknowledged the importance of bolstering Parliament’s manpower and resources to ensure effective functioning. He cited examples from other countries where all MPs are provided with government-funded security, underlining the need for adequate resources to support legislative duties.
The Ministry of Defence will also continue with the phased implementation of the development of UPDF barracks, including the construction of 1,400 houses at a cost of Shs100 billion.
Additionally, the committee recommended allocations for various security-related initiatives, including combating insecurity in Karamoja, recruitment and retraining of personnel, and research and development for Luwero industries, among others.
According to budget estimates, the Ministry of Defence has been allocated Shs3.856 trillion, with allocations also made for the Ministry of Internal Affairs, National Citizenship and Immigration Control, Uganda Police Force, and Uganda Prisons, reflecting the government’s commitment to enhancing security and defense capabilities.
