Gen. Kainerugaba credits retiring army officers for strong UPDF foundation
Gen. Kainerugaba highlighted how the army has expanded its capabilities beyond conventional warfare to meet contemporary national challenges.
Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Chief of Defence Forces, delivers his speech during the retirement ceremony on August 12, 2026, at the Defence Forces headquarters. (Courtesy)
________________ CDF Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba and Deputy CDF Lt Gen Samuel Okiding during the retirement ceremony for 222 senior officers held at the UPDF Joint Services Headquarters in Mbuya on August 12, 2026. (Courtesy) CDF Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba with one of the 222 senior officers during the discharge ceremony at the UPDF Joint Services Headquarters in Mbuya on August 12, 2026. (Courtesy)
The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Muhoozi Kainerugaba has hailed senior military officers retiring from the army for their distinguished service, praising them for laying what he described as a firm, resilient foundation that continues to anchor the transformation of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF).
The CDF expressed his appreciation during the official retirement ceremony for 222 senior officers held at the UPDF Joint Services Headquarters in Mbuya on Wednesday, August 12.
The group comprised Colonels, Lieutenant Colonels, and Majors.
General Kainerugaba commended the outgoing cohort (the 16th batch to be discharged) for their sacrifice, loyalty, and discipline. He noted that the UPDF’s growth from a historical liberation movement into one of the continent’s most respected defence forces is a direct result of their dedicated leadership.
CDF Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba awards a discharge certificate to one of the retiring senior officers during the retirement ceremony at the UPDF Joint Services Headquarters in Mbuya on August 12, 2026. (Courtesy)
“These achievements rest on the foundation laid by committed officers, such as those we honour today," he said, according to the Ministry for Defence and Veterans Affairs media release.
Reflecting on the UPDF’s evolution, Gen. Kainerugaba highlighted how the army has expanded its capabilities beyond conventional warfare to meet contemporary national challenges. He noted that as the security landscape grows increasingly complex, the force must remain technologically capable, adaptable, and prepared to counter emerging threats, ranging from terrorism and cybercrime to climate-related disasters.
“From its origin in the liberation struggle, our force has grown into one of the most professional militaries on the African continent. We must continue modernising our force, embracing innovation, strengthening joint operations, and maintaining the highest standards of discipline, accountability, and readiness, " he added.
The CDF cautioned that the group gathered at Mbuya should not view retirement as an exit from national service, but rather as a transition into civic leadership. He tasked the officers serving as community anchors with leveraging their skills to mentor younger generations, foster peace, and support local development.
“I encourage you to see this as a new phase in your contributions to the country. Uganda still needs your experience, wisdom, and leadership. I urge you to remain ambassadors of patriotism, discipline, and the unity of our people.
On navigating the financial transition into civilian life, he added, “use your retirement benefits wisely, plan carefully, invest prudently, and maintain financial discipline.”
General Kainerugaba also acknowledged the overarching support of the Government of Uganda and the Commander-in-Chief, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, in building a capable defence force while ensuring that outgoing officers remain integrated into the broader fabric of national development.
The CDF also extended deep appreciation to the spouses, children, and extended families of the retirees, recognising that the demands of military service, marked by prolonged separations and constant readiness, were burdens shared equally by their households.
“Military service demands uncommon discipline, resilience, and sacrifice. It requires long separations from family, service in difficult environments, and a constant readiness to place duty above personal comfort. Today this honour belongs to them as well," he remarked.
On behalf of the outgoing cohort, the most senior retiree, Col Kajungu Rutiinampora, expressed gratitude to the Commander-in-Chief, the CDF, and the entire UPDF leadership for the peace and stability attained across Uganda, the region, and Africa under their leadership. He also commended the military command for continuously improving the welfare of soldiers and their families.
Col Rutiinampora pledged that the retirees would remain active ambassadors of the UPDF in civil-military cooperation within their communities.
He further extended appreciation to his colleagues and junior officers, noting that the spirit of teamwork among them has played a vital role in strengthening the unity and cohesion of the force.
Following the formal address, General Kainerugaba and top UPDF leadership, including the Deputy CDF Lt Gen. Sam Okiding, the Commander Air Force Lt Gen. Charles Okidi, the Commander Special Forces Command (SFC) Maj. Gen. Asaph Mwetesie, and other senior generals lined up at the exit of Mbuya headquarters to honour and bid a final farewell to the outgoing officers. In a poignant moment marking the end of their active military service, the retirees (some visibly emotional) waved to the "guard of honour" as they marched through the UPDF headquarters gates into civilian life.