More than 200 Uganda Peoples' Defence Forces (UPDF) officers have retired after completing years of military service, with Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba commending them for their dedication, loyalty and professionalism.
Among the senior officers who retired are Col Kajungu Rutinampora, Col David Mugisha and Col Henry Turyatunga.
The officers were honoured during a retirement ceremony held by the UPDF to recognise their contribution to the country and the development of the armed forces.
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Presiding over the ceremony, Gen Muhoozi congratulated the retirees and thanked them for their years of service to Uganda.
"Retirees, senior officers, and distinguished guests, it is a great honour to join you today as we celebrate the service of our senior officers. You have served Uganda with commitment and sacrifice. On behalf of the UPDF and on my own behalf, I thank you and congratulate you," he said.
Muhoozi said the officers served in different capacities that contributed to transforming the UPDF into a professional military force.
"Some of you served on the frontline. Others served in logistics, medical, engineering, intelligence, and administration. In every role, you contributed to making the UPDF a strong and professional force," he said.
He noted that the UPDF's responsibilities have extended beyond defending Uganda's territorial integrity to include supporting national development, responding to disasters and contributing to regional peace efforts.
Muhoozi said these achievements were built on the foundation laid by generations of military officers, including those retiring.
He also recognised the contribution of the officers' families, saying their support had enabled the retirees to serve the country.
"I also recognise your families. Your support made their service possible. Today's honour belongs to you as well," he said.
Muhoozi urged the retirees to view their departure from active service as the beginning of another chapter in their contribution to the country.
"As you retire, see this as the beginning of a new chapter. Uganda still needs your experience, wisdom, and leadership," he said.
He encouraged the retirees to use their retirement benefits responsibly, invest prudently and remain active and healthy.
He also asked them to continue promoting patriotism, discipline and unity in their communities.
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To officers remaining in active service, the CDF urged them to draw inspiration from the retirees and remain vigilant as the security environment evolves.
He said the UPDF must continue modernising and preparing for emerging threats, including terrorism, cybercrime and regional instability.
"We must continue to modernize our force and remain alert to new threats including terrorism, cybercrime, and regional instability," Muhoozi said.
He reaffirmed the UPDF's commitment to defending Uganda's sovereignty, constitutional order and national interests.
Muhoozi also assured the retirees that they would remain part of the UPDF family and that their contribution would continue to inspire future generations of officers.
He concluded by thanking the government, under President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces, for its continued support to the UPDF.
