By The Commander of the Special Forces Command (SFC), Maj Gen David Mugisha, has applauded President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for his visionary leadership that has transformed the Uganda Peoples’ Defense Forces (UPDF) from a guerrilla outfit into a modern, professional army.
Speaking during a colorful ceremony at the SFC headquarters in Entebbe where 52 officers formally retired, Maj Gen Mugisha praised the President, who also serves as Commander-in-Chief of the UPDF, for institutionalizing a dignified retirement process.
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“I extend my deepest appreciation to President Museveni for his able leadership that has transitioned the UPDF into one of the most professional forces in the region,” Mugisha said. “Today, our brothers and sisters retire honorably, walking out with their heads held high and satisfied with the system they have served.”
The retiring cohort included eight senior officers and 44 other ranks, all of whom have served the country with dedication for between 16 and 36 years.
Maj Gen Mugisha also recognized the Chief of Defense Forces (CDF), Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, for championing UPDF’s modernization and prioritizing troop welfare. “His commitment to a dignified retirement framework ensures every soldier departs with pride, dignity, and financial support,” he said.
He encouraged the retirees to invest their retirement packages in sustainable ventures and remain role models in their communities. “Retirement is not the end—it’s a new beginning. The battlefield may change, but your mission continues at home and in your communities,” he said.
Col John Mango Baraza, SFC Director of Human Resource Management, described retirement as a crucial part of military personnel management. “It promotes career progression, maintains professionalism, and helps retirees integrate into civilian life while remaining productive,” he said.
Lt Col Fred Mwesigwa, former SFC Director of Communication and ICT, speaking on behalf of five other senior officers who retired earlier this month, echoed the appreciation for the President’s reforms in the army. “There has been a remarkable transformation—adoption of new technology and modern strategies has boosted our capacity to address emerging threats,” he said.
Capt Emmy Rubonga, speaking for the other retiring officers, thanked the UPDF leadership for shaping their careers. “For the years we have served, we have learned a lot. We thank President Museveni and the CDF for guiding us and making the UPDF a regional leader,” he said.
The event was attended by senior and junior officers of the SFC, friends, and family members, marking a moment of pride and transition for the distinguished officers who have served the country with honour.
