Uganda’s Defence Attachés and Advisors accredited to missions abroad have been urged to remain proactive, disciplined, and closely coordinated in advancing the country’s national interests through military diplomacy and international security cooperation.
The call was made by the Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, Lt Gen Sam Okiding, at the closing of a three-day retreat held at the Defence Intelligence and Security Headquarters.
Lt Gen Okiding described the officers as “ambassadors of Uganda’s image abroad,” noting that their roles extend beyond representation to strategic engagement in support of national objectives.
“Defence advisors are strategic instruments of power. Your role is to strategically advise and conduct military diplomacy, support operations other than war, and provide security assistance and cooperation,” he said.
He further urged the attachés to remain focused and uphold discipline throughout their foreign assignments, stressing that they serve at the centre of Uganda’s national interests.
“You are there because of Uganda’s national interests. You are modern instruments of national power. Continue serving Uganda with loyalty and utmost discipline,” he added.
Lt Gen Okiding commended the officers for their professionalism and integrity while representing the country abroad.
“On this one, you have done well. You have scored very highly and we have no problem with you,” he said.
At the opening of the retreat, the Chief of Joint Staff, Lt Gen Jack Bakasumba, emphasised the strategic mandate of defence attachés in advancing Uganda’s interests internationally, urging them to actively promote and safeguard the country’s image.
“Your major role is to present and protect Uganda’s strategic interests by working closely with ambassadors and heads of diplomatic missions. Make friends for Uganda and be as responsible as possible,” he said.
Lt Gen Bakasumba underscored the importance of integrity in public service, warning against any form of indiscipline, particularly corruption.
“UPDF is now number one in the fight against indiscipline. If you have any doubt on your integrity, you’ll never get any office,” he said.
Col Allan Matsiko, Assistant Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security in charge of Defence Engagements and International Affairs, on behalf of the Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security, said the retreat was intended to strengthen the officers’ understanding of their mandate and Uganda’s strategic direction.
“As Defence advisors and attachés, you remain a critical extension of Uganda’s national security and strategic engagement architecture abroad. You are not only representatives of the UPDF but also strategic instruments for defence diplomacy, military partnerships and protection of Uganda’s interests abroad,” he said.
The retreat was aimed at inducting the officers into diplomatic norms and deepening their understanding of Uganda’s foreign policy, including its drivers and expectations in their respective missions. It further focused on enhancing coordination and information sharing, strengthening engagement with international partners, and advancing Uganda’s trade, investment, industrial, and technological interests in countries of operation.
The retreat also featured engagements with key diplomatic stakeholders, including officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Uganda Tourism Board.
