MODVA And UPDF Set Course For 2025/26 With Focus On Security And Accountability

The Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MODVA) and the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) have concluded a three-day strategic retreat aimed at shaping budget priorities for the Financial Year 2025/26.

 

Held at the Directorate of Intelligence and Security Headquarters in Mbuya, the retreat brought together senior MODVA and UPDF leadership for intensive planning and review.

Defence Minister Hon. Jacob Oboth Oboth, who closed the retreat, hailed the Permanent Secretary and the Chief of Defence Forces for organising what he called a vital exercise in streamlining and reforming the Ministry’s budgeting process. “The Defence Strategic Investment Plan is designed to ensure the overall health of the Ministry, prioritise staff development, and address emerging threats all while enhancing Uganda’s security,” he said.

 

He emphasised the importance of vigilance during the lead-up to the 2026 general elections, highlighting the Ministry’s responsibility to safeguard peace and stability before, during, and after the polls. He also noted that civil-military cooperation remains a cornerstone of national stability.

 

Hon. Oboth extended his appreciation to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the UPDF’s Commander-in-Chief, for his unwavering strategic guidance and support. This, he noted, had contributed to institutional progress and a boost in the defence budget for the upcoming financial year.

 

He further applauded Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba for his strategic leadership and focus on measurable outcomes during the retreat. Urging stakeholders to uphold accountability, he stressed the need to curb wasteful spending and deliver value for public resources.

Permanent Secretary Rosette Byengoma presented a review of the 2024/25 budget, noting gains in national security, operational readiness, recruitment and training, regional military engagements, logistical efficiency, and salary disbursement.

Gen Kainerugaba praised the unified effort shown during the retreat. “Good performance by one element within MODVA and UPDF is good performance for all,” he said, calling for continued collaboration across departments.

 

Gen Kainerugaba, who also serves as the Special Presidential Advisor on Special Operations, expressed confidence that the Ministry and UPDF would make significant progress toward the retreat’s goals before the next retreat.

 

Chief of Joint Staff, Lt Gen Jack Bakasumba underscored the importance of discipline, clear priorities, and strategic planning, especially in view of the upcoming elections. He reaffirmed the UPDF’s commitment to maintaining peace both within Uganda and in regional engagements.

 

The retreat was attended by key military and civilian leaders, including Undersecretary for Finance and Administration Edith Buturo, Deputy CDF Lt Gen Sam Okiding, UPDF Air Force Commander Lt Gen Charles Okidi, Reserve Force Commander Lt Gen Charles Otema, Land Force Commander Lt Gen Kayanja Muhanga, and NEC Executive Director Lt Gen James Mugira