Seven senior officers of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) have been officially documented for retirement at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MODVA) headquarters in Mbuya. The documentation marks the beginning of their transition into civilian life, with their formal retirement set for later this year.
Chief of Joint Staff, Major General Jack Bakasumba, commended the generals for their exceptional service, particularly in strengthening leadership and capacity building within the UPDF.
“These leaders have made remarkable contributions to national and regional peace, especially through international missions such as those in Somalia,” said Maj Gen Bakasumba.
The officers preparing for retirement include: Lieutenant General Peter Elwelu, Major Generals Hudson Mukasa, Francis Ben Okello, and George Igumba
Others are; Brigadier Generals John Byuma, Dominic Twesigomwe, and Augustine Kamyuka Kyazze.
Maj Gen Bakasumba emphasized that retirement is an essential phase of military life, opening opportunities for younger officers while preserving institutional continuity. He encouraged the retirees to embrace this new chapter with the same dedication and values that defined their service in the UPDF.
He also noted that proposed amendments to the UPDF Act, 2005, aim to improve welfare support for retirees, including enhanced access to healthcare, disability compensation, and full military burial honors.
Quoting American biochemist Betty Sullivan, he said, “There is a whole new kind of life ahead, full of experience, just waiting to happen. Some call it retirement; I call it bliss.”
Brigadier General James Kinalwa, Joint Staff Human Resource Management, urged the outgoing officers to prioritize their health and personal conduct as they reintegrate into civilian life. He reminded them to carry forward the discipline and integrity that characterized their military careers.
The documentation event was attended by MODVA officials, members of the Joint Services legal team, and representatives from the Veterans Legal Aid Clinics.
