Gen Kainerugaba Sets Expectations for UPDF Troops

Paul K. Mugabe
4 Min Read
PHOTO - UPDF News Portal

The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, spoke yesterday, urging all troops to regularly create a positive and lasting effect in their roles across various services, units, and formations.

General Kainerugaba emphasized that such actions reflect the peaceful culture of a professional military like the UPDF. He advised, “Do your best with what you know to leave a lasting positive effect on the force.” He made these remarks while presiding over the Handover/Takeover ceremony for the positions of Deputy CDF (D/CDF) and Chief of Joint Staff (CJS).




The ceremony, held at the Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs (MODVA) headquarters in Mbuya – Kampala, saw Outgoing D/CDF Lt Gen Peter Elwelu handing over responsibilities to Lt Gen Sam Okiding, and former Chief of Joint Staff Maj Gen Leopold Kyanda handing over to Maj Gen Jack Bakasumba.




General Kainerugaba, who also serves as the Special Presidential Advisor in charge of Special Operations (SPA/SO), reminded both incoming and outgoing officials that their tenure aims to enhance operational efficiency. He stressed, “These roles are temporary and part of building a professional force. Everyone goes through this. It’s for everyone.”




Additionally, General Kainerugaba encouraged troops to maintain unity and continue strengthening the UPDF, ensuring it remains respected and cherished by all.

He expressed satisfaction with President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s selection of suitable individuals for the mentioned positions, while also advising the new appointees to make significant contributions in their new roles and thanking the former officials for their service.

Outgoing D/CDF Lt Gen Peter Elwelu conveyed his gratitude to President Museveni for the trust placed in him during his tenure. He acknowledged the challenges he faced and pledged to continue serving as a Special Presidential Advisor, thanking MODVA/UPDF for their support over his 38-year career.




While recognizing achievements during his tenure, Lt Gen Elwelu emphasized the need to expedite military court proceedings and continually enhance soldiers’ welfare, ensuring retirees are satisfied with their benefits.

Incoming D/CDF Lt Gen Sam Okiding praised his predecessor’s work and expressed readiness to serve to the best of his ability. He highlighted the timing of his appointment and his past experience, promising to collaborate with others for progress.

Outgoing Chief of Joint Staff Maj Gen Leopold Kyanda acknowledged the privilege of working with MODVA, noting the transition within the UPDF. He listed achievements during his tenure, such as establishing the UPDF Act 2021 and initiating various projects.




Maj Gen Kyanda emphasized the necessity for a service doctrine, budget optimization, decentralization of services, and engaging in income-generating activities to fulfill the UPDF’s constitutional mandate.

He advised his successor to prioritize soldiers’ welfare and assured that his command decisions aimed at the force’s benefit.

Incoming Chief of Joint Staff Maj Gen Jack Bakasumba requested support to fulfill the force’s objectives, committing to uphold discipline and combat corruption, aiming to build a strong force with clear ideological principles.

Both outgoing and incoming officials extended appreciation to President Museveni for his support and guidance.

The ceremony also saw the attendance of MODVA’s Under Secretaries, General Officers, and other senior officers.







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Paul K Mugabe is a news analyst and commentator who has been gracing the pages of The East African Central Press Syndicate with his thought-provoking, and often eyebrow-raising, insights. - mugabe [at] eastafrica.ankoletimes.co.ug
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