Last week, the UPDF decorated 27 generals and 39 senior officers following their promotion.

The event was held at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs Headquarters in Mbuya, Kampala.

The Deputy CDF and Inspector General of the UPDF, Lt Gen Sam Okiding, said military promotions carry a deeper significance than personal achievement, describing them as recognition of years of service, sacrifice, discipline, commitment and leadership.

“A military promotion is a major achievement for a country. It is for you as an individual, and it is also for your family,” he said.

Lt Gen Okiding underscored the contribution of military families, particularly spouses, to the careers of promoted officers.

“Military spouses endure prolonged deployments, transfers, periods of separation and the demands associated with the profession,” he said. “Their support therefore becomes an important part of an officer’s journey to higher responsibility.”

The Joint Staff Human Resource Management, Maj Gen James Kinalwa, said the promotions were part of the UPDF’s continued professionalisation and reflected an institutional career system based on competence, dedication and consistent performance.

Maj Gen Kinalwa urged the newly promoted officers to translate their experience and professional knowledge into effective leadership while mentoring personnel under their command.

Commander Reserve Force, Maj Gen Joseph Musoke Ssemwanga, spoke on behalf of the decorated officers, and expressed gratitude to the Commander-in-Chief, UPDF leadership, service members and families for supporting them throughout their military careers.

He cautioned the officers that their new ranks would come with greater scrutiny from their juniors, colleagues and the public, with their conduct reflecting directly on the image and reputation of the UPDF.

Maj Gen Ssemwanga urged the newly promoted officers to lead by example, uphold discipline and integrity, and remain conscious of their increased responsibility to the force and the nation.

Among those decorated were the Commandant of the Senior Command and Staff College, Kimaka, Maj Gen David Gonyi; Joint Staff Logistics, Maj Gen Godwin Karugaba; Commander 15 Marines Brigade, Maj Gen Michael Nyarwa.

Others were Joint Staff Formal Education, Sports and Culture, Maj Gen Richard Karemire; Chief of Staff Land Force, Maj Gen Chris Bagonza; and Chief of Staff Air Force, Brig Gen James Basheija Itungu, among others.