KAMPALA — President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has praised the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, for his role in strengthening the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), as the army chief marked his 52nd birthday.
In a message shared on social media on April 24, 2026, President Museveni credited Gen Muhoozi with contributing to reforms within the military, particularly in tackling corruption and enhancing operational effectiveness.
“Gen Muhoozi has made a significant contribution to fighting corruption in the Army and increasing the lethality of the UPDF,” Museveni said.
The President also reflected on his son’s upbringing during Uganda’s liberation struggle, noting that Muhoozi was “born in the resistance, grew up in the resistance, and… made a significant contribution to the resistance.”
Muhoozi, who currently serves as Chief of Defence Forces, responded with a message of gratitude, thanking his family, colleagues in the military, and supporters.
“All your expressions of goodwill, love and appreciation mean a lot to me. God bless you all, and God bless Uganda,” he said.
Celebrations and reactions
The birthday is being marked by a mix of official praise and public commentary, with some political leaders and supporters organising celebratory activities, including cake-cutting events and plans for a charity marathon.
In addition to his role as army chief, he is associated with the Patriotic League of Uganda, a civic platform that has attracted both support and scrutiny.
His leadership of the UPDF comes at a time when the military continues to play a significant role in national security and regional peacekeeping missions.
Personal reflections
In his message, President Museveni also offered a personal glimpse into family life, recounting how Muhoozi earned the nickname “Muogi” during childhood due to pronunciation challenges by family acquaintances.
“I always call Muhoozi, Muogi. It is because our neighbour in Upanga, Dar-es-Salaam, was Mzee Tito Okello (Gen). Being a traditional Acholi, he had a problem with pronouncing the “z” in Muhoozi’s name. Hence, the Muogi and Maama Janet also became Maama Muogi. Tito’s wife was safely Maama Jennifer because we had no problem pronouncing Jennifer, the sister of Okello Oryem. Unfortunately, Jennifer died some years ago.”
The President concluded by thanking Ugandans and Africans who have supported his family and political movement over the years.