Over 600 soldiers retire countrywide
At the central ceremony in Bombo, Deputy Commander Land Forces Maj. Gen. Francis Takirwa paid tribute to the retirees for their unwavering dedication to Uganda’s security and their contributions to peacekeeping operations abroad.
Retirees matching out of the quarter guard after their discharge at the Joint Staff General Headquarters. (Credit: UPDF)
By Admin .
Journalists @New Vision
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Over 600 Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) junior officers and non-commissioned officers (NCOs) have retired in a series of ceremonies held across its various divisions and services.
At the central ceremony in Bombo, Deputy Commander Land Forces Maj. Gen. Francis Takirwa paid tribute to the retirees for their unwavering dedication to Uganda’s security and their contributions to peacekeeping operations abroad.
Deputy Commander Land Forces Maj. Gen. Francis Takirwa speaking to the retirees during the discharge of junior officers and other ranks at Bombo barracks. (Credit: UPDF)
“It is now with great honour that the army retires you honourably,” Takirwa said, “Go and use the skills you’ve gained in the army to serve the nation in other capacities. It is a pleasure to send you off with pride, not through desertion but with dignity.”
He urged the retirees to manage their retirement benefits prudently, warning against gambling and fraudulent investments, according to a statement issued on July 30, 2025.
Takiwa encouraged participation in government programmes such as Operation Wealth Creation and veterans’ SACCOs to sustain their livelihoods.
“This is the time to strengthen family ties and focus on your health,” he added. “Don’t start new families; instead, nurture and support the ones you already have. Your spouses have stood by you throughout your years of service.”
In Gulu, 4th Infantry Division commander Maj Gen Felix Busizoori urged the retirees to preserve the discipline they upheld in service and manage their finances responsibly. He also commended the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba for his role in combating corruption and enhancing soldier welfare.
Speaking in Masaka, Armoured Division commander Maj. Gen. Sande Deus praised the retirees for their sacrifice and values.
“You have served with resilience, patience, courage, honesty, and integrity,” he said.
Deputy Commander Land Forces Maj. Gen. Francis Takirwa awarding a retiree a certificate during the discharge of Junior officers and other ranks. (Credit: UPDF)
At the Wakiso district-based 1st Infantry Division in Kakiri, Maj. Gen. Steven Mugerwa urged the retirees to invest wisely and actively engage in government development initiatives to ensure long-term financial security.
In Moroto, Maj. Gen. Wilberforce Sserunkuma of the 3rd Infantry Division lauded the NCOs for their role in maintaining national stability and urged them to avoid political agitation during the coming election period.
In Nakasongola at the Motorised Infantry Division, commander Maj. Gen. Charles Byanyima encouraged retired soldiers to abide by the spirit of UPDF, for all they have is because of this institution.
Meanwhile, in the Mountain Division, Col Saulo Nabimanya of the 222 Brigade, speaking on behalf of the division commander, encouraged the retirees to become pillars in their communities and continue inspiring the next generation.
Across all ceremonies, the message remained clear, gratitude for their service, a call for financial prudence, and a reminder that even in retirement, their duty to nation-building endures.