Brig Gen Chris Bagonza officially assumed the role of Chief of Staff – Land Force (COS-LF) today, succeeding Brig Gen Micheal Kabango in a handover ceremony at the Land Force Headquarters in Bombo.
Presiding over the event, the Chief of Joint Staff Maj Gen Jack Bakasumba commended Brig Gen Kabango for his service and achievements during his tenure while expressing confidence in Brig Gen Bagonza’s capability to effectively steer forward the responsibilities of the office.
Maj Gen Bakasumba issued a stern warning against corruption, stating, “Many officers are currently awaiting trial for corruption charges.”
He urged Brig Gen Kabango to continue advocating for the expansion of the Senior Command and Staff College in Kimaka, Jinja, where he has now been deployed as Commandant.
In his farewell address, Brig Gen Kabango thanked the President and UPDF leadership for their trust, highlighting that training advancements under his command aligned with the 2021 UPDF framework.
“My advice to my successor is to invest in modernization across various Land Force sectors to enhance productivity,” he said.
Brig Gen Bagonza expressed gratitude for his appointment, honoured predecessors, and pledged to “carry on their legacy and build upon the foundation they have laid” with unwavering commitment.
The ceremony was attended by senior UPDF officers, including Brig Gen Hassan Kimbowa, Adjutant of Joint Services Headquarters Brigade Group; Brig Gen Metland Bitumbika, General Manager of the Defence Forces Shop; and Brig Gen Edward Mutawe, Director of Human Resource Management – Land Force, alongside Brig Gens Saad Katemba, Pande Kajuba, Ali Kiiza Kasauli, and other high-ranking officials.
