The Commander of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) 4 Infantry Division, Major General Felix Busizoori, has lauded the outgoing 503 Brigade Commander, Colonel DK Magambo, for his exemplary service in both domestic and international operations.
Speaking at the official handover ceremony in Moyo District, where Col Magambo passed command to Col CK Asiimwe ahead of his retirement later this year, Maj Gen Busizoori praised Magambo’s steadfast discipline and professionalism. “Everything has a beginning and an end. Go and serve. Implement new innovations with civil authorities as our envoy,” said Busizoori, encouraging Col Magambo to continue upholding UPDF values in civilian life.
He reaffirmed that discipline remains central to the UPDF’s mission to protect citizens and their property and urged retiring officers to maintain this virtue within their communities.
Addressing the incoming commander, Col Asiimwe, Maj Gen Busizoori urged him to build on his predecessor’s successes and strengthen collaboration with administrative teams.
He also assured the public of the UPDF’s ongoing cooperation with the Office of the Prime Minister to relocate South Sudanese refugees near the border, noting that some displaced individuals had taken advantage of the situation to engage in cross-border crime.
Maj Gen Busizoori expressed gratitude to the local communities in Moyo Sub-county for freely donating land for the construction of the 503 Brigade headquarters, describing the gesture as a significant boost to operational efficiency and regional security.
He warned serving soldiers against engaging in activities such as corruption and illegal charcoal trade across the border, stressing that such misconduct undermines the institution’s reputation and puts their careers at risk.
Resident District Commissioner for Koboko, Mr Emmy Mitala, also praised the UPDF and the 4 Infantry Division for sustaining peace in the West Nile region. He described Col Magambo as a dedicated and influential leader and urged Col Asiimwe to maintain strong ties with all joint security agencies to ensure continuity.
The ceremony was attended by both senior and junior officers.
