The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has commenced the retirement for its personnel under Batch 16, marking yet another milestone in the institution’s proud tradition of honouring service, sacrifice, and patriotism.
205 Junior Officers and 1,364 Militants will officially retire from their respective formations and units of service around the country, closing a distinguished chapter of duty to the nation. On 12 August 2026, 222 Senior Officers will be retired at the UPDF Joint Services Headquarters in Mbuya, in a ceremony that will pay tribute to their leadership, operation excellence, and enduring contributions to the institution’s legacy.
Among those to retire is former Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala who joined the forces in 1979.
Other high-ranking officers due for retirement include 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.
“The ceremonies will mark another milestone in the force’s tradition of honouring 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 reads.
Ahead of the retirement exercise, the UPDF has been conducting financial literacy training for the outgoing officers.
Speaking during a training session at Mbuya Military Headquarters on Thursday, Maj. Gen. James Kinalwa, representing the Chief of Joint Staff, urged the retirees to plan carefully for life after active service.
“You have been used to a monthly salary, subsistence allowances, office benefits and out-of-pocket facilitation, which may no longer be available once you leave the army,” Maj. Gen. Kinalwa said.
He advised the officers to maintain steady income streams after retirement and avoid selling off 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 contribution of personnel who have served the country over the years.
