Maj Gen Ssemwanga Tips Reserve Force Commanders On Operational Readiness

The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Reserve Force Commander, Major General Joseph Ssemwanga, has urged Reserve Force commanders in Teso, Bukedi and Elgon to address operational challenges and strengthen the management and preparedness of reservists.

He made the call during a meeting with regional commanders as part of his tour of eastern Uganda. The meeting enabled commanders to share experiences, discuss administrative and operational constraints, and identify measures to improve the Reserve Force’s contribution to national defence and community development.

Maj Gen Ssemwanga stressed the importance of effective leadership and readiness to keep reservists organised and responsive. He also called for closer cooperation among the UPDF, Uganda Police Force, Uganda Prisons Service, Internal Security Organisation (ISO), Resident District Commissioners (RDCs) and other stakeholders to address emerging threats and maintain peace.

The tour will continue to Greater Bugisu and Busoga, where he is expected to engage commanders on their challenges and explore ways to improve operational performance.

The delegation included the Chief of Staff Reserve Force – Brig Gen Mwanjje Ssekiranda, Reserve Force directors and officials from the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MODVA).

The UPDF Reserve Force complements the regular forces by providing trained personnel who can be mobilised for national defence operations. Reservists and veterans also support community mobilisation, disaster response and local development initiatives.