The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has ordered its foreign-based defence attachés to aggressively use military diplomacy to safeguard the country's strategic image and national interests abroad.
The Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, Lt Gen Sam Okiding, issued the directive during the closing session of a three-day orientation retreat. Held at the Defence Intelligence and Security Headquarters, the seminar inducted military advisors into modern diplomatic norms and foreign policy execution. Top army commanders told the diplomats that their foreign deployments must actively translate into robust international security partnerships.
Lt Gen Okiding described the officers as the primary custodians of Uganda’s global reputation. He noted that their responsibilities go far beyond ceremonial representation in their respective missions. The Deputy Chief of Defence Forces added that these attachés serve as critical instruments of state power.
“Defence advisors are strategic instruments of power," Lt Gen Okiding said. "Your role is to strategically advise and conduct military diplomacy, support operations other than war, and provide security assistance and cooperation."
Lt Gen Okiding praised the officers for maintaining high levels of professionalism during their assignments. He insisted that absolute discipline must remain their guiding principle while working in foreign capitals.
“You are there because of Uganda’s national interests," Lt Gen Okiding added. "You are modern instruments of national power. Continue serving Uganda with loyalty and utmost discipline."
The Chief of Joint Staff, Lt Gen Jack Bakasumba, opened the retreat by reminding the attaches to collaborate closely with civilian ambassadors. He ordered the officers to actively build strategic friendships for the country to foster trade and technological transfer. Furthermore, Lt Gen Bakasumba issued a stern warning against financial malpractice, noting that the military has adopted a zero-tolerance policy toward corruption.
“UPDF is now number one in the fight against indiscipline," Lt Gen Bakasumba noted. "If you have any doubt on your integrity, you’ll never get any office."
Col Allan Matsiko spoke on behalf of the Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security to outline the core objectives of the convention. He explained that the retreat equips the attaches with a deeper understanding of the drivers behind Uganda’s foreign policy. Officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Uganda Tourism Board also facilitated the training to align military goals with tourism and investment promotion.
