UPDF Pays Tribute To Retired Lt Gen Fredrick Alexander Okecho

The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has paid tribute to the late Lieutenant General (Rtd) Fredrick Alexander Okecho, describing him as a patriotic and dedicated officer who made significant contributions to Uganda’s peace and security.

Lt Gen Okecho who passed away on 30 September 2026 in Kampala, was laid to rest on 8 October at his ancestral home in Rubongi Parish, Tororo District, with full military honours..

In a message delivered by the Commander Air Force, Lt Gen Charles Okidi, the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, described the late General as a historical leader whose distinguished career was marked by patriotism, professionalism, diplomacy and dedication to duty.

“Throughout his service, he made selfless contributions to his country. The UPDF is saddened by the loss of such a gallant General officer with long-serving experience. He will be remembered for his patriotism, professionalism, diplomacy, commitment and devotion to serving the country,” the CDF said.

Gen Okidi, who spoke at the burial on behalf of the UPDF leadership, said the late officer made significant contributions to Uganda’s peace and development and served as an inspiration to many military officers and other leaders.

“He has run his race well for the time he served his country,” Gen Okidi said.

A requiem service was held on 7 October at All Saints Cathedral, Nakasero, in Kampala and was led by the Rev. Symon Peter Omoding.

Rev. Omoding encouraged the bereaved family to remain united, continue seeking strength from God and draw comfort from the Holy Bible during the period of mourning.

Gen Ivan Koreta, who represented the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MoDVA), conveyed condolences to the family, friends and relatives of the deceased.

He described Lt Gen Okecho as a dedicated public servant who served the country with distinction throughout his career, from his early years as a junior officer to his service as a senior military officer and civil servant.

“I will not call it a big loss to the country because all of us come to this earth and, at one time, we have to go back. Therefore, it is a time to celebrate the things and the service he was able to render to his country,” Gen Koreta said.

Nicho Okwi, representing the Golf Uganda community, described Lt Gen Okecho as a passionate golfer and team player who maintained a modest lifestyle despite holding senior positions.

Lt Gen Okecho held several senior military, diplomatic and public service positions during his career.

Among his appointments were Protocol Officer at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs from 1970 to 1971; Chief of Personnel and Administration in the Liberation Army in 1979; Chief of Staff of the National Resistance Army from 1989 to 1991; and Secretary of Defence in the National Resistance Army.

He later served as Uganda’s Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China from 1992 to 1998 and as Director of the External Security Organisation from 1998 to 2001.

From 2002 to 2003, he chaired the Capacity Committee of the Defence Review Unit before serving as Chairman of the Contracts Committee at the Ministry of Defence from 2003 to 2009.

The burial ceremony was marked by a 15-gun salute, in accordance with military funeral honours, and brought together senior UPDF Generals, officers and militants, civil leaders, family members and friends from across the country.