UPDF, through its Directorate of Pension, Gratuity, and Compensation (DPGC), has concluded a sensitisation and documentation exercise for Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) at the Defence Rehabilitation and Vocation Centre (DRVC) in Mubende.
This event marked a significant milestone as the UPDF becomes the first military institution to organise a dignified send-off for disabled officers.
Brigadier General 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 government reluctance but to ensure they received proper rehabilitation and essential support.
This includes providing equipment such as wheelchairs and artificial limbs to facilitate their transition into civilian life.
“Now we have an existing policy that caters to their needs during retirement,” Brig Gen Biryabarema stated, emphasising the importance of this exercise in preparing retiring officers for smooth reintegration into society.
He stressed that the pre-retirement programme assists them in transitioning from the structured military environment to civilian life, enabling them to manage their post-service lives effectively.
Brig Gen Biryabarema urged local communities to warmly welcome these veterans, 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 utilise 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 stay connected through Wazalendo SACCO for access to affordable loans, thereby avoiding the high costs associated with 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.
Brigadier General Moses Kwikiriza, Commandant of the Defence Rehabilitation and Vocation Centre, expressed gratitude to the Commander-in-Chief for ensuring that disabled veterans receive a well-earned retirement package.
He encouraged the retirees to capitalise on 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 remain vigilant in protecting their hard-earned benefits.
Present at the event were officials from the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, along with staff from the Defence Rehabilitation and Vocation Centre.
