The Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has paid tribute to the late Maj Gen (Rtd) James Ssebaggala, describing him as a patriotic and selfless officer who dedicated his life to the defence of Uganda throughout his military career.
The tribute was delivered on Gen Muhoozi’s behalf by Maj Gen Dr Lucky Kidega, Camp Commandant of the Joint Headquarters – Brigade Group, during the burial ceremony held on Saturday in Lule, Semuko, Nakaseke District.
Maj Gen (Rtd) Ssebaggala, who held the registration number RO/00803, passed away on July 6, 2025, in Kampala. He was laid to rest with full military honours. “We are deeply saddened by the loss of a senior officer whose long service and unwavering dedication will be remembered for his patriotism, professionalism, experience, and commitment,” read the CDF’s message.
Gen Muhoozi, who serves as the Special Presidential Advisor on Special Operations, praised the late general for mentoring and training many officers and men currently serving or retired from the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF).
Maj Gen Ssebaggala began his military career in 1963, serving first in the Uganda Army and later in the UPDF. Over the years, he held several key positions including commander, administrator, chief of personnel and administration, trainer, and commandant at various academies and training institutions.
He steadily rose through the ranks, attaining the rank of Major General before retiring from active service on July 13, 2018.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Col Charles Ssebaggala described his father as “a mentor, servant, and friend to many from all walks of life,” and remembered him as a firm but fair disciplinarian both at home and in service.
He expressed the family’s appreciation to the President and Commander-in-Chief for the support extended to them, and thanked the Chief of Defence Forces for facilitating medical care during his father’s illness. He also acknowledged the support of Maj Gen James Kinalwa, Joint Staff – Human Resource Management.
The burial was attended by several serving and retired generals and senior officers, including Gen (Rtd) Ivan Koreta, Maj Gen Steven Mugerwa (Commander 1 Division), Maj Gen David Isimbwa (Deputy Commander Air Force), Maj Gen George Igumba, Maj Gen Apollo Kasiita-Gowa (Director of Citizenship and Immigration Control), Maj Gen Sam Kiwanuka, Maj Gen (Rtd) Steven Kashaka, and Brig Gen Mwanje Ssekiranda (Chief of Staff – Reserve Force), among others.
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