Former Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen. Katumba Wamala is among 1,591 Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) personnel set to retire this month.
The retirement exercise, announced by the Acting Director of Defence Public Information, Col. Chris Magezi, covers personnel across all ranks, from generals to privates.
It includes 19 general officers, 222 senior officers, 205 junior officers and 1,364 militants who will retire from various formations and units across the country.
Other high-ranking officers due for retirement include Lt. Gen. Charles Awany Otema, Lt. Gen. Charles Angina, Maj. Gen. Godfrey Katsigazi Tumusiime, Maj. Gen. Henry Ndarubweine Masiko, Maj. Gen. Apolo Kasiita Gowa, Maj. Gen.
Leopold Kyanda and Maj. Gen. Abel Kandiho, among others. According to the UPDF, 222 senior officers, from the rank of Major to Colonel, will officially retire during a ceremony scheduled for August 12 at the Joint Services Headquarters in Mbuya.
The date for the ceremonial send-off of the 19 general officers will be announced later to ensure they are honoured with the dignity befitting their service.
“The ceremonies will mark another milestone in the force’s tradition of honouring sacrifice and patriotism. Junior cadres have safeguarded Uganda’s sovereignty, while senior commanders have strengthened Uganda’s role in regional peace and stability. Together, the ceremonies celebrate the courage, discipline and devotion of both categories of personnel,” the statement reads.
Ahead of the retirement exercise, the UPDF has been conducting financial literacy training for the outgoing officers.
Speaking during a training session at Mbuya Military Headquarters on Thursday, Maj. Gen. James Kinalwa, representing the Chief of Joint Staff, urged the retirees to plan carefully for life after active service.
“You have been used to a monthly salary, subsistence allowances, office benefits and out-of-pocket facilitation, which may no longer be available once you leave the army,” Maj. Gen. Kinalwa said.
He advised the officers to maintain steady income streams after retirement and avoid selling off assets due to poor financial planning. Last month, the UPDF launched a recruitment drive targeting more than 10,000 new soldiers to address staffing needs.
Under UPDF regulations, the mandatory retirement age is 65 years for generals and lieutenant generals, and 62 years for major generals.
The army said the retirement exercise reflects its commitment to building a professional, disciplined and modern force while honouring the contribution of personnel who have served the country over the years-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
