By Rogers Wanambwa 

KIU, Main Campus – This week, the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) held a decoration ceremony for the newly promoted Generals at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs headquarters in Kampala.

The pipping ceremony was presided over by the Minister of State for Defence in Charge of General Duties Hon. Col (Rtd). Charles Okello Engola.

The decorated Generals included Seven (07) Maj Generals and Thirty Two (32) Brig Generals, one of whom was a female.

Hon. Col (Rtd). Charles Okello Engola congratulated the newly promoted officers and reminded them that UPDF has always been distinguished for its high level of professionalism. He urged them to perform their duties professionally.

“I, therefore, urge you to embrace this opportunity with open hands and do so with a big commitment to the Nation with all the energy, strength, and determination of a proud General,” Hon Engola emphasized.

Hon Engola reminded the recently promoted generals to prep themselves for the challenges ahead, reinforcing that these emerging challenges require a strong and resilient UPDF prepared to deal with the dynamics.

The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen David Muhoozi, who also attended the ceremony, congratulated the Generals on their deserved elevation to different ranks and encouraged them to embrace the extra duty that comes with the new ranks.

“Promotions come with new expectations and added responsibility to the UPDF, to your country, to yourselves and your families. The higher you climb, the higher the stakes,” Gen Muhoozi said.

Gen Muhoozi called upon the newly promoted officers to serve with honor, loyalty, devotion, dedication, and valor to the UPDF leadership. 

He further applauded the families and spouses of the newly promoted army officers for supporting and anchoring the promoted Generals.

Besides, others present at the pipping procession was the Deputy Chief of Defence Forces Lt. Gen Wilson Mbadi, Commander Air Force Lt. Gen Charles Lutaaya, the Managing Director of NEC, Lt. Gen James Mugira, and the Chief of Personnel and Administration Maj Gen George Igumba, among other UPDF General and Senior Officers.