Retiring Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) personnel have been urged to remain ambassadors of the army in their communities, uphold military discipline and use their retirement benefits wisely as they return to civilian life.
The message dominated retirement ceremonies for Batch 16 personnel held across several UPDF formations and units.
At the Land Force Headquarters in Bombo, 404 junior officers and militants left active military service during a ceremony in Luweero District.
The Commander of the Joint Staff Brigade Group, Major General Dr Lucky Joseph Kidega, praised the retirees for their patriotism, discipline and service to Uganda.
“I am honoured to join you on this occasion as we recognise your dedicated service to our country. I thank His Excellency, the President and Commander-in-Chief, for his vision and commitment to the professionalisation of the UPDF, which has transformed our armed forces into a disciplined and capable institution,” Maj Gen Kidega said.
He asked the retirees to continue promoting UPDF values and ideology after leaving active service.
“As you begin this new chapter, avoid alcoholism and drug abuse. Endeavour to stay healthy through regular exercise and maintaining a balanced diet. Continue to live by the values that guided you throughout your military careers,” he advised.
The Director of Human Resource Management–Land Force, Brigadier General Emmanuel Ayuk, asked them to plan before spending their retirement packages.
“As you reunite with your families, continue to uphold discipline and take good care of your health. Spend your retirement packages with a clear plan because your sacrifices have greatly contributed to the stability of this country,” Brig Gen Ayuk said.
Speaking for the retirees, Captain Augustine Tulyahanuka described retirement as a moment of fulfilment.
“I have served my country with pride. This is a moment of profound emotion, not sadness, but fulfilment. I thank God for preserving my life throughout my years of service,” he said.
Capt Tulyahanuka also urged fellow retirees to embrace civilian life and invest their benefits wisely.
Similar ceremonies took place across the country.
At the 3 Infantry Division, Division Commander Major General Wilberforce Sserunkuma asked retirees to use the skills gained in the army to continue serving Uganda.
“It is now with great honour that the army retires you honourably. Go and use the skills you have gained in the army to serve the nation in other capacities,” Maj Gen Sserunkuma said.
At the 5 Infantry Division, Division Commander Major General Keith Katungyi warned retirees against rushing into investments after receiving their packages.
“Do not be carried away by the money you receive as your retirement package. This is an important resource for your future. Use the knowledge you have acquired in financial management and invest wisely,” Maj Gen Katungyi advised.
At the Motorised Infantry Division headquarters in Nakasongola District, Division Commander Major General Charles Byanyima told the retirees that they remained representatives of the army.
“You fought the good fight and have completed your active military service. You are our ambassadors in the community. Maintain the military discipline that has defined the UPDF and continue supporting government programmes in your respective localities,” he said.
Maj Gen Byanyima also asked them to invest in sustainable income-generating activities and remain members of Wazalendo SACCO.
At the 1 Infantry Division, Division Commander Brigadier General Fred Mwesigye urged retirees to maintain discipline and support their families, whom he credited with helping them endure the demands of military service.
The Armoured Division retired 39 personnel during a ceremony led by Division Commander Brigadier General Pius Juma Kajuba.
Brig Gen Kajuba thanked them for their service and praised the UPDF leadership for allowing soldiers to retire while they were still able to pursue productive lives.
At the Mountain Infantry Division headquarters in Muhooti, Kabarole District, 51 senior and junior non-commissioned officers retired.
Deputy Division Commander Brigadier General David Opeero said retirement marked a transition from active service to the reserve force.
He praised the retirees for their courage and contribution to operations against the Allied Democratic Forces.
“Your patience made it possible for these men to focus on their duties. Without stability at home, it would not have been possible for them to perform their responsibilities effectively,” Brig Gen Opeero said while recognising the contribution of their families.
At the Defence Forces Rehabilitation and Vocational Centre in Mubende, Commandant Brigadier General Moses Kwikiriza urged retirees to respect civilian authorities and obey the law.
“You are not going to open another front line with civilian leadership. You have to obey the laws that govern the population,” Brig Gen Kwikiriza cautioned.
The ceremonies brought together UPDF officers, government officials, local leaders, families and members of the public.
