By The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has paid glowing tribute to the late Maj Gen (Rtd) James Ssebaggala, hailing him as a patriotic, selfless, and professional soldier who dedicated his life to the service and defence of Uganda.
In a message delivered on his behalf by Maj Gen Dr Lucky Kidega, Camp Commandant of the Joint Headquarters – Brigade Group, during the burial ceremony on Saturday in Lule, Semuko, Nakaseke District, Gen Muhoozi described the fallen general as “a senior officer whose long service and unwavering dedication will be remembered for his patriotism, professionalism, experience, and commitment.
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Maj Gen Ssebaggala, who joined military service in 1963, passed away on July 6, 2025, in Kampala. He was laid to rest with full military honours. His service number was RO/00803.
The CDF, who also serves as Special Presidential Advisor on Special Operations, commended the late officer for his contribution to mentoring and training several generations of soldiers who have served in or retired from the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF).
“Maj Gen Ssebaggala was more than a soldier. He was a builder of institutions, a trainer, and a man of immense experience,” the CDF’s message read.
Throughout his career, Ssebaggala served in key roles including commander, administrator, chief of personnel and administration, and commandant at multiple military academies and training institutions. He rose steadily through the ranks, retiring at the rank of Major General on July 13, 2018.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Col Charles Ssebaggala described his father as “a mentor, servant, and friend to many from all walks of life,” adding that he was a firm but fair disciplinarian both at home and in uniform.
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The family expressed gratitude to the Commander-in-Chief, President Yoweri Museveni, for the support rendered to them during the general’s illness and after his passing. They also thanked the CDF for facilitating medical care and acknowledged the support of Maj Gen James Kinalwa, Joint Staff – Human Resource Management.
The burial was attended by a host of serving and retired senior military officers, including Gen (Rtd) Ivan Koreta, Maj Gen Steven Mugerwa (Commander 1 Division), Maj Gen David Isimbwa (Deputy Commander Air Force), Maj Gen George Igumba, Maj Gen Apollo Kasiita-Gowa (Director of Citizenship and Immigration Control), Maj Gen Sam Kiwanuka, Maj Gen (Rtd) Steven Kashaka, and Brig Gen Mwanje Ssekiranda (Chief of Staff – Reserve Force), among others.
Maj Gen Ssebaggala leaves behind a legacy of dedication, discipline, and nation-building, fondly remembered by the institution he helped shape for more than five decades.
