Seven senior officers of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) are set to retire in July 2025, marking the end of decades-long military careers that have shaped Uganda’s defense architecture both at home and abroad.
On May 27th, the generals officially documented their retirement at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MODVA) headquarters in Mbuya.
Presiding over the ceremony, Chief of Joint Staff Maj. Gen. Jack Bakasumba hailed the group for their distinguished service to the country.
“These leaders have made remarkable contributions to national and regional peace, especially through international missions such as those in Somalia,” said Maj Gen Bakasumba.
He emphasized that retirement is an essential phase in military progression.
“It provides space for younger officers to rise while ensuring continuity within the institution. I urge you all to embrace this next chapter with purpose, guided by the values of the UPDF,” he said.
He also noted that proposed amendments to the UPDF Act, 2005 would enhance the welfare of retiring officers, including healthcare access, disability compensation, and full military burial honours.
“There is a whole new kind of life ahead, full of experience, just waiting to happen. Some call it retirement, I call it bliss,” Bakasumba quoted American biochemist Betty Sullivan.
The Generals preparing to retire:
Lt. General Peter Elwelu
Lt. Gen. Peter Elwelu, born in 1966 in Kumi District, joined the Ugandan military in 1987. He trained at the Tanzania Military Academy in Monduli and later served as an instructor at the School of Infantry in Jinja. Elwelu played a significant role in the UPDF’s operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo during the late 1990s and early 2000s.
In 2007, he commanded the first Ugandan contingent deployed to Somalia under the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), establishing a secure base that facilitated further operations against insurgents.
He later served as the commander of the UPDF’s 2nd and 3rd Divisions and was appointed Commander of Land Forces in 2017. In 2021, he became the Deputy Chief of Defence Forces. His tenure included commanding the controversial 2016 operation in Kasese.
Major General Hudson Mukasa
Maj. Gen. Hudson Mukasa began his military career in 1983, joining the National Resistance Army, the precursor to the UPDF. He trained at the Tanzania Military Academy and took advanced military courses in Ghana and at Kenya’s National Defence College.
Mukasa held various command positions, including leading the 2nd Division in Mbarara and the 5th Division in Lira. He also commanded the 503 Brigade in Kitgum, focusing on operations against the Lord’s Resistance Army. From 2016, he served as Uganda’s Military Attaché to Kenya.
Major General Francis Ben Okello
Maj. Gen. Francis Ben Okello served as the second commander of AMISOM from March 2008 to 2009, leading key peacekeeping efforts in Somalia. On return, he held senior leadership roles, including Commandant of the National Defence College Uganda (NDC-U), where he advocated for youth skilling and agricultural mechanization as pillars for national development and security.
Major General George Igumba
Maj. Gen. George Igumba has played a central role in professionalizing the UPDF. As Commandant of the Uganda Senior Command and Staff College in Kimaka, Jinja, he supervised the training of senior military officers. His contributions to military education earned him commendation from Vice-President Jessica Alupo, who praised his discipline and integrity.
Brig. General John Byuma
Brig. Gen. John Byuma’s military journey features various command and administrative roles that enhanced the UPDF’s operational capacity. Though less publicized, his behind-the-scenes leadership contributed significantly to institutional stability.
Brig. General Dominic Twesigomwe
Brig. Gen. Dominic Twesigomwe held both field and administrative roles in the UPDF. His leadership reinforced the force’s discipline and mission readiness, especially in peacekeeping environments and support operations.
Brig. General Augustine Kamyuka Kyazze
Brig. Gen. Augustine Kyazze, born in 1961 in Mpigi District, joined the UPDF in 1987. He commanded the Armored Component under AMISOM and served as Deputy Chief of Logistics and Engineering. He also headed the Kalama Armored Warfare Training School as Chief Instructor. His legacy is grounded in promoting training, discipline, and professionalism.
As they prepare to transition from active service, these seven generals leave behind a legacy of resilience, sacrifice, and leadership. Their retirement not only symbolizes the close of a significant chapter but also ushers in a new era for the UPDF.
