General Wilson Mbasu Mbadi, Chief of Defence Forces, has challenged Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) officers and generals who have recently been promoted to meet the additional requirements of accountability to the nation and the UPDF institution.
He made this remark while presiding over the decoration ceremony of the newly promoted generals and senior officers at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs Joint Headquarters, Mbuya, on Tuesday, October 31, 2023.
The decoration ceremony follows their promotions by the President and Commander-in-Chief on October 3, 2023.
“You must prepare yourselves and also remember that the ranks denote seniority, authority, and responsibility according to the chain of command,” Gen. Mbadi said.
Gen. Mbadi urged the officers to maintain their physical and mental well-being, reminding them that the new ranks signify an outstanding military service that they have demonstrated through selflessness, discipline, devotion, integrity, bravery, and patriotism.
He also urged them to always remember the UPDF’s pro-people code of conduct and to abstain from actions that might damage the UPDF and compromise its efficacy.
Brig Gen. Wycliffe Keita, the Commandant of Uganda Military Academy in Kabamba, spoke on behalf of the distinguished generals and senior officers, and he expressed gratitude to the Commander in Chief’s leadership and the CDF’s stewardship of the UPDF.
“Your direction, personal example, can’t, and consistent guidance have significantly helped us to grow professionally and consolidated our collective strength both individually and collectively as an institution,” Brig Gen Keita said.
In addition, he said the confidence in their abilities means a great deal to all of them, and they look forward to the new challenges and opportunities that come with the new ranks.
Those decorated include Brig Gen Jimmy N. Musoke, Brig Gen John Patrick Otongo, Brig Gen James Muhwezi, Brig Gen Richard Rubongoya, Brig Gen Wycliffe R. Keita, and seventeen colonels.
The Joint Chief of Staff, Maj. Gen. Leopold Kyanda; the Deputy CDF, Mr. Alfred Cox Anguzu; the Commissioner of Human Resources; and the Service Chiefs of Staff, Service Chiefs, Generals, and Senior Officers were in attendance at the event.
