Maj. Gen. Busizoori takes over as Deputy Commander Land Forces
Maj. Gen. Busizoori thanked the UPDF leadership for entrusting him with the responsibility and acknowledged the critical role of the office in supporting the Commander Land Force and ensuring the effective functioning of the formation.
Land Force: Protects Uganda's sovereignty and territorial integrity on land.
BOMBO - Major General Felix Busizoori assumed office as Deputy Commander Land Forces, taking over from Major General Joseph Ssemwanga, who has since been appointed Commander Reserve Force.
The Uganda Peoples Defence Forces (UPDF), in a statement, said the handover ceremony was presided over by the Deputy Chief of Defence Forces and Inspector General of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), Lt Gen Sam Okiding, on September 12, 2026, at the Land Force Headquarters in Bombo.
Lt Gen. Okiding said their appointments reflected the trust and confidence the UPDF leadership has in their capabilities and experience.
He described transfers and appointments within the UPDF as a normal part of military service.
“Transfers are normal. We are trained people, and we understand that. What is important is that all of us have been developed and grown. Now, here, you will do the work,” Lt Gen. Okiding said.
He urged Maj. Gen. Busizoori to work closely with the established Land Force command structure and build on the work already undertaken by his predecessor.
In his remarks, Maj. Gen. Ssemwanga described his tenure as Deputy Commander Land Forces as a rewarding experience and an opportunity to work alongside senior military leaders and other personnel.
“It has been profoundly fulfilling and enriching to have worked alongside exceptional people, including the Commander of the Land Force and all the leaders. They are intelligent and knowledgeable people,” Maj. Gen. Ssemwanga said.
The Uganda Peoples Defence Forces (UPDF), in a statement, said the handover ceremony was presided over by the Deputy Chief of Defence Forces and Inspector General of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), Lt Gen Sam Okiding, on September 12, 2026, at the Land Force Headquarters in Bombo.
Maj. Gen. Busizoori thanked the UPDF leadership for entrusting him with the responsibility and acknowledged the critical role of the office in supporting the Commander Land Force and ensuring the effective functioning of the formation.
“Our mission demands nothing but excellence. We will train rigorously, support each other and ensure that every member of the Land Forces is equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed,” Maj. Gen. Busizoori said.
The handover was attended by senior UPDF officers from the Land Force, Division and Formation Commanders, Joint Services formations, among others.
The UPDF is structured into four main departments, each with its own specific roles and responsibilities.
▪️Land Force: Protects Uganda's sovereignty and territorial integrity on land.
▪️Air Force: Ensures the safety of Uganda's lifelines to the seas.
▪️Special Force Command: Handles specialised missions or operations.
▪️Reserve Force: Provides a built-in reserve capability for all services.
These departments work together to maintain Uganda's national security and contribute to regional stability.