The Air Force Wing Commander Entebbe, Brigadier General Chris Kasaija eulogized the late Lt Allan Tukamuhabwa Kapando, one of the pilots who died in the 2 January 2024 helicopter crash, as an extraordinary pilot who will be remembered for his role in the fight against the Allied Democratic Forces terrorists in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
“He did a good job in the fight against insecurity from the Allied Defense Forces (ADF) in Western Uganda and as far as DRC and will always be remembered because he died in the line of duty. He will be missed and the UPDF – Air Force will stand with the family of the late Lt Allan in these trying moments,” said Brig Gen Kasaija.
Brig Gen Kasaija was speaking during the burial of the late Lt Tukamuhabwa that was held yesterday (6 January 2024) at his ancestral home in Seeta Village, Kinuuka Sub-county, Bwamiramira Parish in Lyantonde district.
He told mourners that Lt Tukamuhabwa had done his basic flying course and had reached the peak of flying advanced combat helicopters (Cobra Squadron). Brig Gen Kasaija added that the late was an extraordinary pilot who was serious about his routine duties and every time he went to work, he expected positive results and had a passion and commitment towards his call of duty.
Member of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) Hon. James Kakooza commiserated with the family of Mr James Rugazu, the father to the late Lt Tukamuhabwa and pledged to provide education to one of the children of the late.
Hon. Kakooza observed that the mission of UPDF is not yet over and said that Uganda is committed to the Pan-Africanism cause and ensuring security and prosperity in the East African region by wiping out insecurity.
He thanked UPDF for the proper training and for making it a Force to reckon with in Africa.
On 2nd January 2024, a UPDF combat helicopter in which Lt Allan Tukamuhabwa and Lt Swadiq Aroma we’re crashed in Karugutu, Ntoroko district.