General Muhoozi Kainerugaba,49, has officially assumed the mantle as Uganda’s 13th Chief of Defence Forces (CDF).The ceremony was presided over by the Senior Presidential Advisor on Defence and the National Coordinator of Operation Wealth Creation, General Salim Saleh.
In his inaugural address, General Kainerugaba articulated his vision for the Ugandan People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), emphasizing a steadfast commitment to improving the welfare of soldiers and combating the pervasive evils of corruption and mismanagement within the military ranks.
He hailed his father and Commander in Chief of the armed forces for putting trust in him and pledged to ensure that the UPDF remains a bastion of national security, capable of addressing a myriad of challenges facing the nation.
“I am deeply indebted to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for his exemplary leadership, which has guided the UPDF to its current stature.” remarked General Kainerugaba,
Adding that “The UPDF is not just a military institution; it is the bedrock of Ugandan nationhood, open to all citizens and deserving of unwavering respect and support,” he added, underscoring the importance of national unity and solidarity in safeguarding Uganda’s sovereignty.
General Kainerugaba also took a moment to commend his predecessor, General Wilson Mbadi, for his commendable service and leadership as outgoing CDF. He lauded General Mbadi’s efforts in modernizing and professionalizing the UPDF, urging soldiers to remain vigilant and dedicated in their duties.
Addressing the gathering, General Mbadi reflected on the challenges and triumphs of his tenure, highlighting the pressing need for adequate defense budgeting, the ever-present threat of extremist organizations, and the imperative of countering cybercrimes and cross-border tensions.
“Despite the challenges, Uganda remains calm and peaceful, thanks to the dedication and sacrifice of our men and women in uniform,” remarked General Mbadi, reaffirming the UPDF’s commitment to preserving Uganda’s stability and security.
The handover of power to the incoming Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) included a range of critical instruments and policies to guide the military’s operations and strategies. These instruments of power form the backbone of Uganda’s defense establishment and provide a framework for addressing various challenges, including negative elements infiltration, political activism, environmental issues, and cross-border tensions from neighboring countries such as Eastern DR Congo, South Sudan, and Somalia.
They included the Uganda Constitution: The supreme legal document of Uganda, providing the foundational principles and structure of the state, including provisions related to defense and security. UPDF Act 2005: This legislation outlines the organization, role, and functions of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces. It delineates the legal framework within which the military operates, including issues related to command structure, discipline, and accountability. UPDF Doctrine: The doctrinal framework of the UPDF lays out its principles, strategies, and tactics for the defense of Uganda. It guides military operations and ensures a unified approach to national security challenges. UPDF Defence Policy: This policy document articulates Uganda’s defense objectives, priorities, and strategies. It provides a comprehensive framework for the UPDF’s role in safeguarding national sovereignty, territorial integrity, and interests.
UPDF Establishment 2020/21: This document likely details the organizational structure, personnel strength, and equipment inventory of the UPDF for the specified period. It helps in resource allocation, force planning, and capability development.
MOD Policy Statement 2024/25: The Ministry of Defence (MOD) policy statement outlines the broader defense and security policies of Uganda for the specified fiscal year. It reflects the government’s priorities, resource allocation, and strategic direction in the defense sector.
National Defence Policy: This overarching policy framework provides guidance on Uganda’s defense posture, national security objectives, and defense cooperation strategies. It may encompass both military and non-military aspects of national security, including diplomacy, intelligence, and resilience-building.
The ceremony, was attended by high-ranking military and government officials, like the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Mrs. Rosettie Byengoma, and the Director-General of External Security Organisation, Mr. Joseph Ocwet, underscoring the importance of civilian-military collaboration in safeguarding national interests.
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