KAMPALA: President Yoweri Museveni, also the Commander-in-Chief of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), convened the Defence Forces Council at State House, Entebbe.
Key on the agenda was the launch of the UPDF Establishment 2021, during which the president signed the executive order and received four copies of the UPDF Establishment book.
Joined by top military officials, President Museveni emphasized strategic decisions aimed at bolstering national security and enhancing the UPDF’s effectiveness.
The meeting, following a High Command session on Friday, February 16th, 2024, marked the unveiling of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Establishment 2021, a significant step in modernizing and optimizing Uganda’s defense architecture.
In his address, President Museveni likened the role of the UPDF Establishment 2021 to that of medical professionals, stressing its importance in preserving the nation’s well-being.
He underscored that just as doctors prioritize maintaining health and offering treatment, when necessary, the UPDF’s primary mission is to ensure peace and security in Uganda.
President Museveni outlined that the doctrine of defense and the establishment’s structures emphasize effective planning and execution vital for upholding peace and security across the country.
He noted that the launched UPDF Establishment signifies a visionary approach to safeguarding peace and security in Uganda, emphasizing the influence of science on diagnosis and prescription for a cure.
During the Council meeting, the president honored the family of the Late Lt Gen (Rtd) Pecos Kutesa for his distinguished service as the 1st Chairman of the UPDF establishment committee.
President Museveni paid tribute to the late Lt Gen (Rtd) Pecos Kutesa, highlighting his bravery and contributions to Uganda’s liberation struggle.
He also informed the council meeting about Kutesa’s significant participation in various liberation battles, recalling his role in capturing rifles in Masindi and his involvement in the Kabamba battles, among others.
Gen Pecos Kutesa joined the armed struggle under the Front for National Salvation (FRONASA) to fight the regime of the late President Idi Amin Dada until its overthrow in 1979.
He retired from the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces on August 5, 2021, after a distinguished military career spanning forty-six years and passed away on August 17, 2021.
Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen Wilson Mbasu Mbadi, praised the exhaustive seven-year process leading to the formulation of the UPDF Establishment 2021, highlighting its consultative nature and focus on jointness at the strategic level and operational leanness.
Hon. Vincent Ssempijja, the Minister for Defence and Veteran Affairs, hailed the UPDF Establishment 2021 as a blueprint for organizational effectiveness and operational prowess, reflecting Uganda’s commitment to national security and sovereignty.
