Maj Gen Deus Sande Dies While Travelling to Colleagues Funeral

The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has confirmed the sudden death of Major General Deus Sande, the commander of the Armoured Division based in Masaka.

According to Col Chris Magezi, the acting UPDF Director of Public Information, Gen Sande passed away in the early hours of Wednesday, around 3:45 a.m., in Mpigi District while travelling to Kampala.

He had been heading to All Saints Cathedral in Nakasero to attend the funeral of his senior colleague, Major General Francis Takirwa, the former Deputy Commander of the UPDF Land Forces, who died on Saturday, February 7, 2026, after a prolonged illness related to complications from a stroke.

Col Magezi noted that Maj Gen Sande developed breathing complications during the journey, “Major General Deus Sande developed breathing complications along the way, and efforts to resuscitate him at a hospital facility in Mpigi failed.”

Maj Gen Sande, who rose through the ranks to lead the Armoured Division in Masaka and was promoted to major general in 2025, was known for his operational roles and regional command responsibilities, including involvement in past security operations.

In an official statement, the UPDF extended heartfelt condolences to the families, relatives, and the entire defence community, acknowledging the dedication and service of both generals to the country. Funeral arrangements for Major General Sande are yet to be announced.