Maj Gen Don William Nabasa, Commander of the 3 Infantry Division of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), has urged retired soldiers to remain committed to supporting government initiatives and to resist any distractions that could lead them away from the core principles of the pro-people ideology and discipline.
“As good ambassadors, you should practice conscious discipline in the community you are about to join. Don’t isolate yourselves; instead, be proactive in all areas,” said Maj Gen Nabasa during the send-off ceremony for 97 Non-Commissioned Officers at Moroto Army Barracks.
He warned against engaging in divisive politics and setting poor examples within their communities, noting that the public continues to trust and believe in the UPDF, including its reserve forces.
Maj Gen Nabasa encouraged the retirees to become involved in productive groups and associations aligned with their goals and to gradually invest in business ventures where they have expertise.
Brig Gen Wilberforce Sserunkuma, Deputy Division Commander, highlighted the importance of stable families as essential pillars of societal development, urging the retirees to take good care of their spouses and families as they transition to civilian life.
Ms Esther Napeyok, interim LC1 Chairperson for Tank Hill village in Moroto, reminded the retirees of the need for financial discipline to thrive in civilian life.
Among the retirees was the notable RA/296838 Private (Retired) Kirya Sowedi, aged 96, from Budaka district. A veteran of the Second World War (under Kings African Rifles -KAR), he was re-enlisted as a Local Defence Personnel (LDP) in 2002 and recently absorbed into UPDF in July 2024 to access a beneficial financial package.
Pte Kirya Sowedi has been seen marching at the rear during national parades, proudly donning his uniform.
The retirement ceremony was attended by senior officers from UPDF, Uganda Police Force, Uganda Prisons Service, and Cpl (Retired) Lokoru Pius, Chairman of the Moroto District Veteran Association, among others.
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