President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the Commander-in-Chief of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), has advised retiring army generals to focus on wealth creation as they transition into civilian life.
Museveni made these remarks during a farewell ceremony held on Tuesday at State House Entebbe, where several high-ranking officers were honored for their service.
Among those retiring were Maj. Gen. Silver Kayemba, Brig. Gen. Charles Kisembo, Brig. Gen. Godard Busingye, Brig. Gen. Fred Karara, and Brig. Gen. CA Kasaija.
These generals, accompanied by their families, received certificates of recognition for their dedication to the UPDF.
In his speech, Museveni praised the officers for their commitment and encouraged them to invest in sustainable ventures as they retire.
“You have been serving the nation by providing security. Now, it’s time to focus on wealth creation—but in a safe way,” he advised.
The president emphasized the need for a dignified retirement, highlighting his efforts to secure adequate compensation for retiring officers.
“I worked hard to ensure you get a good package. We cannot allow our injured or disabled soldiers to return to villages as paupers,” he said, adding that retirees must invest wisely to avoid financial missteps.
Museveni also shared insights from his personal investments in agriculture, urging the retiring generals to consider acquiring land outside Kampala, where prices are more reasonable.
“When I bought land in Kisozi in 1990, an acre cost Shs 250,000. You can still find affordable land in places like Mubende. Invest in durable assets like agriculture; the need for food never ends,” he noted.
He encouraged diversification by suggesting that the retirees venture into various agricultural activities, such as coffee farming, livestock, and fish farming.
“The army can provide you with free coffee seedlings. A well-planned farm can be a lasting source of income,” Museveni added.
Reflecting on Uganda’s political history, Museveni reiterated the importance of proper diagnosis of societal problems, warning against the perils of identity politics.
He emphasized the core principles of the National Resistance Movement (NRM)—patriotism, pan-Africanism, socio-economic transformation, and democracy—as key drivers for national prosperity.
Jacob Oboth Oboth, the Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, commended the retiring officers for their exceptional service and highlighted the transformative nature of military training.
“The UPDF is one of the most respected and professional armies in the world. Your leadership has left an indelible mark on the force,” he said, also praising Museveni’s strategic leadership.
Lt. Gen. Sam Okiding, the Deputy Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), echoed similar sentiments, acknowledging the President’s leadership in ensuring stability within Uganda.
He lauded the retirees for their commitment and sacrifice over decades of service, noting that military careers spanning 35 to 45 years are a significant achievement.
Speaking on behalf of the retirees, Maj. Gen. Silver Kayemba expressed gratitude for the leadership and support they received throughout their service.
“We thank God for bringing us this far, and we appreciate the guidance of His Excellency. Serving the UPDF for over 40 years has been an honour,” he said.
The event was attended by several high-profile individuals, including Minister for Defence (Veteran Affairs) Huda Oleru Abason, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence Rosette Byengoma, and Commander of the Land Forces Lt. Gen. Kayanja Muhanga, alongside other senior military officials.
