The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) will retire 1,810 personnel in a nationwide exercise covering ranks from generals to privates, the Acting Director of Defence Public Information, Col. Chris Magezi, has announced.
The retirement exercise will involve 19 general officers, 222 senior officers, 205 junior officers, and 1,364 militants drawn from various formations and units across the country.
Among the senior officers due for retirement are Lt. Gen. Charles Awany Otema, Lt. Gen. Charles Angina, Maj. Gen. Godfrey Katsigazi Tumusiime, Maj. Gen. Henry Ndarubweine Masiko, Maj. Gen. Apolo Kasiita Gowa, Maj. Gen. Leopold Kyanda, and Maj. Gen. Abel Kandiho, among others.
According to the UPDF, the 222 senior officers, from the rank of Major to Colonel, will officially retire during a ceremony scheduled for August 12 at the Joint Services Headquarters in Mbuya.
The date for the ceremonial send-off of the 19 general officers will be announced later to ensure they are honoured with the dignity befitting their service.
In a statement, the UPDF said the ceremonies will mark another milestone in the force’s tradition of recognising sacrifice and patriotism.
“Junior cadres have safeguarded Uganda’s sovereignty, while senior commanders have strengthened Uganda’s role in regional peace and stability. Together, the ceremonies celebrate the courage, discipline and devotion of both categories of personnel,” the statement said.
Ahead of the retirement exercise, the army has been conducting financial literacy training for the outgoing personnel to help them prepare for life after active service.
Speaking during one of the training sessions at Mbuya Military Headquarters on Thursday, Maj. Gen. James Kinalwa, representing the Chief of Joint Staff, urged the retirees to plan carefully for their transition.
He cautioned that benefits such as monthly salaries, allowances, office privileges, and operational facilitation would no longer be available after retirement and advised them to establish sustainable sources of income while avoiding the sale of assets due to poor financial planning.
Last month, the UPDF launched a recruitment drive targeting more than 10,000 new soldiers to address staffing needs.
Under UPDF regulations, the mandatory retirement age is 65 years for generals and lieutenant generals, and 62 years for major generals.
The army said the retirement exercise reflects its commitment to building a professional, disciplined, and modern force while honouring the service and sacrifice of personnel who have dedicated their careers to the country.
By Our Reporter
7th Aug 2026
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