The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has paid tribute to the late Major General Francis Takiriwa during a solemn service held at All Saints’ Cathedral in Kampala.
Maj Gen Takiriwa passed away on 7 February 2026 at the UPDF National Referral Hospital.
The Minister of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs (Veteran Affairs), Huda Oleru Abason, described the fallen general as a unique and warm-hearted officer whose cheerful personality stood out despite the demands of military life.
“General Takiriwa was always jolly and loving. Today, we give our last tribute to a man who served his country faithfully. His work on earth is done, and he has gone to the Lord. Though he is physically gone, his memory will remain with us forever,” she said.
In a message delivered on behalf of the Chief of Defence Forces, Lt Gen James Mugira, the Managing Director of the National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) said Maj Gen Takiriwa embodied the core values of the UPDF: patriotism, professionalism, discipline, integrity and loyalty.
“He was a professional soldier whose career reflected dedication to duty and commitment to excellence. In every responsibility entrusted to him, he led by example, upheld standards and instilled confidence through his conduct and commitment,” he said.
Lt Gen Mugira also recalled Maj Gen Takiriwa’s decisive leadership in 1999 while commanding forces in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where he inflicted a severe blow on enemy forces.
Throughout his career, Maj Gen Takiriwa served in key command, instructional and national leadership roles as the Chief of Education, Sports and Culture, 2 Division Commander, and Deputy Commander Land Force. He also served as one of the ten UPDF representatives in the 10th Parliament.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Florence Sanyu, the deceased’s sister, described him as loving, hardworking and deeply committed to service.
“He devoted his life to serving the nation. He was compassionate and looked after many children who greatly loved him,” she said.
The service was presided over by the Most Rev Dr Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, and attended by Ministers, Members of Parliament, senior generals, service commanders, senior and junior UPDF officers, clergy, friends and family members.