Maj. Gen. Takirwa hailed for: patriotism, professionalism, discipline, integrity and loyalty

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Maj. Gen. Takirwa, the deputy commander of land forces, who died on Saturday, has been described as a military officer who upheld the core values of the UPDF, namely: patriotism, professionalism, discipline, integrity and loyalty.

The tribute was delivered by Lt Gen. James Mugira, Managing Director of the National Enterprise Corporation, on behalf of the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, during a funeral service held at All Saints’ Cathedral, Nakasero, in Kampala.

Maj. Gen. Takirwa passed away on February 7 at the UPDF National Referral Hospital in Mbuya. He died from complications of a stroke.

Maj. Gen. Takirwa passed away on February 7 at the UPDF National Referral Hospital in Mbuya. He died from complications of a stroke. (Courtesy)

Earlier today, Feb. 11, while addressing mourners who included senior UPDF officers, Mugira said that the deceased was a professional soldier whose career reflected dedication to duty and commitment to excellence.

"In every responsibility entrusted to him, he led by example, upheld standards and instilled confidence through his conduct and commitment,” said Mugira.

He recalled that Maj. Gen. Takirwa’s decisive leadership in 1999 while commanding forces in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where he inflicted a severe blow on enemy forces. Before appointment as deputy Commander Land forces, Takirwa served as the commanding officer of the Second Division of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces in Mbarara. 

Bereaved family of the late Maj. Gen. Francis Takirwa laying a wreath on the casket during funeral service at All Saints Cathedral, Nakasero, on Feb. 11, 2026. (Courtesy)

The deceased also served as one of the ten UPDF representatives in the 10th Parliament.

Maj. Gen. Takirwa had a long history of service in the Ugandan military dating back to 1989. Throughout his career, he held various leadership roles, including a tour in Somalia as part of the UPDF contingent to the African Mission to Somalia (AMISOM) from 2011 to 2012.

He also served as the chief of Education, Sports, and Culture in the UPDF.

The Minister of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs (Veteran Affairs), Hon. Huda Oleru Abason, described the fallen general as a unique and warm-hearted officer whose cheerful personality stood out despite the demands of military life.

“General Takiriwa was always jolly and loving. Today, we give our last tribute to a man who served his country faithfully. His work on earth is done, and he has gone to the Lord. Though he is physically gone, his memory will remain with us forever,” she said.

The Minister of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs, Huda Oleru Abason, lays a wreath on the casket of ate Maj. Gen. Takirwa during funeral service at All Saints Cathedral, Nakasero, on Feb. 11, 2026. (Courtesy)

Senior UPDF officers lay a wreath on the casket to honour Maj. Gen. Francis Takirwa during the funeral service at All Saints Cathedral, Nakasero, on Feb. 11, 2026. (Courtesy)

On behalf of the family, Ms Florence Sanyu, the deceased’s sister, described him as loving, hardworking and deeply committed to service.

“He devoted his life to serving the nation. He was compassionate and looked after many children who greatly loved him,” she said.

The service was presided over by the Most Rev. Dr Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, and attended by Ministers, Members of Parliament, senior generals, service commanders, senior and junior UPDF officers, clergy, friends and family members

Biography

Takirwa was born on November 7, 1965, in Mbarara District.

For Education, he attended Mbarara Junior School for his primary education and Mbarara High School before joining military service.

Military journey

In 1994, he attended the Junior Command and Staff Course at the Uganda Junior Staff College in Jinja.

Completed the Company Commanders Course at the Tanzania Military Academy at Monduli in 1998.

In 2006, he attended the Army Senior Command Course at Nanjing Army Command College in Nanjing, China.

In 2009, he obtained a Diploma in African Strategic Studies from the Nasser Higher Military Academy in Giza, Egypt.

He also completed an Executive National Security Programme at the South African National Defence College.