The Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, today presided over the ground-breaking ceremony for the construction of the State-of-the-Art Joint Headquarters for the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MoDVA) and Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) in Mbuya.
Speaking at the ceremony, General Kainerugaba emphasized the strategic significance of the new headquarters, highlighting its role in enhancing operational efficiency, coordination, and capabilities of the UPDF.
“Our new headquarters will incorporate the latest technology and infrastructure to support a modern defence strategy,” he stated, expressing confidence in the UPDF leadership’s commitment to excellence in defence and security.
As the Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations, Gen. Kainerugaba extended his gratitude to the Ugandan government, particularly to the President and Commander-in-Chief, for their unwavering support in actualizing the project. He noted that the headquarters would significantly improve decision-making processes and foster better coordination between the Joint Staff and Services, thereby bolstering national security.
He also lauded the UPDF for undertaking the construction of a headquarters that reflects the honour and dignity of the force. Gen. Kainerugaba expressed optimism that the construction, originally estimated to take three years, could be completed in two years.
Maj. Gen. Jack Bakasumba, the Chief of Joint Staff, acknowledged the project as a significant milestone in the professionalisation of the UPDF.
He commended Gen. Kainerugaba for his strategic leadership and support, stating that the realization of the new headquarters aligns with the UPDF’s strategic priorities under the guidance of the President.
Mrs. Edith Butuuro, the Ministry’s Under-secretary of Finance and Administration, revealed that the multi-billion project is estimated to cost UGX 94 billion, with an initial allocation of UGX 20 billion.
She praised Gen. Kainerugaba for his leadership in securing the necessary resources and prioritizing the construction of the headquarters, committing to supporting the mobilization of additional funds for the timely completion of the project.
The ceremony was attended by key military and government officials, including the Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, Lt. Gen. Sam Okiding; Commander Air Force, Lt. Gen. Charles Okiding; Commander Special Forces Command, Maj. Gen. BD Mugisha, as well as Service Chiefs of Staff, Members of the Joint Staff, Generals, and officials from the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affair
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