UPDF Veterans Urged To Safeguard Gains For National Stability

The commander of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) 3rd Infantry Division, Major General Wilberforce Sserunkuma Karate, has called on retired personnel to protect the gains achieved by the government to promote national prosperity and stability.

Maj Gen Karate made the remarks during the official opening of an ideological mindset training for over 200 UPDF veterans at Bugema Army Barracks in Mbale District.

“As you demonstrate commitment in support of government programs, I urge you to safeguard these gains to ensure long-term stability,” Maj Gen Sserunkuma said.

He commended the veterans’ leagues’ strong structures and highlighted their important roles in community defence, prosperity, and environmental security.

Reflecting on the recently passed UPDF Amendment Bill, 2025, he assured veterans of access to critical services, including quality medical care, duty-free products, legal aid, rehabilitation, and an enhanced disability compensation package. He described the bill as a major milestone in addressing long-standing welfare concerns of retired personnel and surviving family members.

Mbale Resident City Commissioner, Mr. Wopuwa George William, encouraged veterans to support the NRM Presidential flag bearer and President of the Republic of Uganda, H.E. Gen (Rtd) Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, while continuing to benefit from government programs. He also expressed gratitude to veterans for their honourable service to the nation.

Col Allan Kyangungu, Deputy Commander of the 3 Infantry Division, urged veterans to remain model ambassadors in their communities and to uphold discipline and ideological values.

The mindset training forms part of broader ideological orientation initiatives and preparations for election security.