(Entebbe) – Brigadier General Paul Namawa, recently promoted by President Yoweri Museveni, who is also the Commander in Chief of the armed forces, has officially taken up the role of the first Chief of Staff of the Special Forces Command (SFC). This significant appointment was marked by a ceremony held at the SFC headquarters in Entebbe on Friday, August 23, 2024, and was presided over by Major General David Mugisha, the Commander of the Special Forces Command.
During the ceremony, Major General Mugisha expressed his congratulations to Brig. Namawa for his well-earned promotion from Colonel to Brigadier, acknowledging his unwavering dedication and hard work. Mugisha highlighted Namawa’s previous role as Director of Operations for SFC, where his leadership significantly enhanced the operational readiness and effectiveness of the troops, particularly in the protection of Very Important Persons (VIPs). The General praised Namawa’s strategic skills and commitment, which were crucial in ensuring smooth and efficient operations within the command.
Mugisha emphasized that Brigadier Namawa’s legacy as Director of Operations would continue to inspire those within the SFC as they carry on the vital work of protecting VIPs and supporting the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) in maintaining national security. He extended his gratitude to President Museveni for transforming the UPDF from a disorganized force into a formidable and professional military power, recognized not only in Uganda but across the region.
The ceremony also included praise for the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, whom Mugisha credited for mentoring and shaping the officers and men of the SFC. Mugisha pointed out that General Kainerugaba’s influence has been instrumental since his time as Commanding Officer of the motorized infantry Battalion, through his leadership in various capacities, and now as the Chief of Defence Forces.
Mugisha also highlighted the CDF’s role in promoting a savings culture within the SFC and the entire UPDF, focusing on ensuring value for money and improving the welfare of officers and soldiers. This has been evident in the construction of housing units and other important facilities that benefit both the Special Forces Command and the broader UPDF.
In his brief remarks, Brigadier General Namawa expressed his gratitude for the trust placed in him as he takes on his new role. He acknowledged the positive transformation of the UPDF from a strategically weak force during the liberation struggle to a dominant military power that supports Uganda’s prosperity. Namawa emphasized the importance of the SFC’s role in contributing to this ongoing effort and pledged to focus on key areas such as teamwork, discipline, zero tolerance for corruption, resource management, and maintaining the strategic relationship between the forces and the citizens as outlined in Uganda’s constitution.
Through Major General Mugisha, Namawa extended his appreciation to the leadership of the revolution, led by President Museveni, for rebuilding the country and for leading the armed forces. He also thanked General Kainerugaba for his mentorship and dedication to transforming the SFC into a highly effective force.
Following his promotion and new appointment, Brigadier Namawa handed over his previous role as Director of Operations to Colonel Phillip Mugizi. Major General Mugisha commended Colonel Mugizi, noting that his leadership would further enhance the directorate of operations. Mugisha praised Mugizi’s efforts, particularly in raising training standards and strengthening the doctrinal frameworks of the Special Forces, ensuring that personnel are well-prepared and knowledgeable in advanced tactics and strategies.
The handover ceremony was attended by several high ranking officers, including the commander of the 3rd Special Forces Group, Colonel Wilson Bagonza, and various directors and brigade commanders within the SFC. Colonel Mugizi, who previously oversaw training for the SFC, has passed on his duties to Lieutenant Colonel Micki Lokut, who until recently served as the Commandant of the Airborne Training School, Amilcar Cabral (ATSAC).
