Summary:
Lt Gen Muhanga emphasized that promotions are earned through dedication, patriotism, and passion for service.
KAMPALA: The Commander of Land Forces, Lt Gen Kayanja Muhanga, has urged newly promoted Generals and Senior Officers of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) to uphold discipline, commitment, and hard work to advance further in their careers.
Presiding over the decoration ceremony at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs headquarters in Mbuya, Lt Gen Muhanga emphasized that promotions are earned through dedication, patriotism, and passion for service.
“Promotions come after dedication, hard work, patriotism, love for what one does, passion for the job, and the effort put in to do your best,” he stated.
Highlighting the importance of discipline, he cautioned that indiscipline, excessive drinking, and lack of physical exercise contribute to officers falling ill at a young age.
“As you rise to higher ranks, you must be very careful. Hard work and discipline are crucial. You can climb the ladder and reach the top, but if you lack discipline, you may fall,” he warned.
Lt Gen Muhanga praised the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, for advancing the army’s professionalization through projects such as office structures, soldiers’ accommodation, and the new Defence Headquarters, set for completion in two years by the Engineers Brigade.
He also acknowledged the sacrifices made by the spouses of the promoted officers, recognizing their support during deployments and training.
Speaking on behalf of the newly decorated officers, Maj Gen Steven Mugerwa, Commander of the 1st Division, expressed gratitude for the promotions.
“To deserve these ranks is not just a promotion but a personal achievement,” he said.
He also conveyed appreciation to the Commander-in-Chief, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, for his role in building a modern, disciplined, and professional force.
Maj Gen Mugerwa commended the dedication of UPDF commanders and the unwavering support of military spouses, emphasizing their vital contributions to officers’ success.
“Adorning these new ranks is a testament to our integrity and service to the nation with honor,” he added.
The ceremony saw the decoration of five Major Generals, 20 Brigadier Generals, and 60 Colonels, including:
- Maj Gen Steven Mugerwa, 1st Division Commander
- Maj Gen Paul Muhanguzi, 2nd Division Commander
- Maj Gen Felix Busizori, 4th Division Commander
- Maj Gen Keith Katungi, 5th Division Commander
- Maj Gen Felix Kulayigye, Director of Defence Public Information Officer (DPIO) (in absentia)
Senior military and ministry officials attended the event, including Mrs. Edith Buturo, Under Secretary for Finance and Administration at MODVA; Lt Gen Charles Okidi, Commander of the UPDF Air Force; and Maj Gen Jack Bakasumba, Chief of Joint Staff. Also present were General Officers, Joint Staff, Senior Officers, officers’ spouses, and relatives of the newly decorated Generals and Officers.
