The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), through its Directorate of Pension, Gratuity, and Compensation (DPGC) has concluded the sensitisation and documentation exercise for Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) at the Defence Rehabilitation and Vocation Centre (DRVC) in Mubende.
This marks a significant moment as the UPDF becomes the first to organise a dignified send-off for disabled officers.
Brig Gen Julius Biryabarema, Director of Pension, Gratuity, and Compensation, reassured the NCOs, who are set to retire on 31 October 2024, that the delay in their retirement, particularly for those with disabilities, was not due to the government’s reluctance but to ensure they received proper rehabilitation and essential support. This includes providing equipment such as wheelchairs and artificial limbs to help ease their transition into civilian life.
“Now we have an existing policy that caters to their needs during retirement,” Brig Gen Biryabarema stated, highlighting the significance of this exercise in preparing retiring officers to reintegrate smoothly into society.
He stressed that the pre-retirement programme helps them transition from the structured military environment to civilian life, enabling them to manage their post-service lives effectively.
The Brig Gen urged local communities to welcome these veterans warmly, noting that the army is deeply connected to the very communities from which its personnel are drawn.
He also expressed gratitude to the families of the retirees for their unwavering support during their loved ones’ service, encouraging the officers to use their leadership skills, discipline, and experience to drive social and economic change in their areas, rather than remaining idle.
Brig Gen Biryabarema advised retirees to remain connected through Wazalendo SACCO for access to affordable loans, avoiding the high costs of commercial banks. He emphasised that they should take pride in their well-deserved retirement, using their time to contribute to the development of their communities.
Brig Gen Moses Kwikiriza, Commandant of the Defence Rehabilitation and Vocation Centre, expressed thanks to the Commander-in-Chief for ensuring that disabled veterans receive a well-earned retirement package.
He encouraged the retirees to take advantage of the country’s prevailing peace by engaging in revenue-generating activities and using their skills and experience to positively impact their communities.
Brig Gen Kwikiriza also cautioned the veterans to safeguard their pension earnings from fraudulent individuals, urging them to be vigilant in protecting their hard-earned benefits.
