Military chief Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba outlines vision for UPDF modernisation

KAMPALA, Uganda — Uganda’s military chief, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, says the country’s defense forces have made significant strides in the past 43 years, but face new challenges in a rapidly changing global security landscape.

In an interview with Independent Publications Limited, Kainerugaba, who serves as Chief of Defense Forces of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), highlighted the force’s defeat of dictatorships, insurgencies and its role in pan-Africanism support and peacekeeping missions.

The UPDF has defeated 30 rebel groups since 1986 and supported liberation movements in South Sudan, Rwanda and Congo, Kainerugaba said. He also cited the force’s involvement in peace support operations in Somalia as a key achievement.

However, Kainerugaba acknowledged two major challenges facing the UPDF: preventing corruption and adapting to the changing nature of warfare in the era of great power competition.

“Corruption is a big threat to our institution, and we must fight it vigorously,” Kainerugaba said. “We also need to reorient our forces to meet the challenges of the new global and operational environment.”

Kainerugaba emphasized the importance of troop welfare, citing good accommodation, schools, medical facilities and training facilities as essential for a professional military.

The Ugandan military has been expanding its role beyond traditional security, venturing into infrastructure development, construction and agricultural production.

Kainerugaba attributed the UPDF’s success to its military culture, language and history, which unify recruits from diverse backgrounds.

“Once they join the UPDF, they acquire a new identity that transcends their original identities,” he said.

Looking ahead, Kainerugaba said Ugandans can expect the UPDF to modernize, become more professional and continue supporting African countries in security challenges.

The UPDF’s vision, Kainerugaba said, is to transform into a modern, professional, efficient and accountable force, anchored on a strong civil-military partnership.