Members of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces have been reminded the importance of retirement for the continuous protection of peace and security.
UPDF Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen Wilson Mbadi during his mobilization tour of troops at Field Artillery Division Headquarters, in Masindi District, said, “An old force is not good for National Defence and therefore retirement is necessary.”
He added that national Defence requires an energetic force that is also flexible and agile.
He expressed his gratitude to the work done by the retiring troops towards the protection of their country.
Gen Mbadi implored serving troops to respect those who have been at the helm of defending this country, noting that it is their time to rest and create space for the younger troops to carry on with the mantle.
He also reminded the troops about the duties and responsibilities of a professional UPDF officers which include; Protection of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Uganda, Engagement in productive activities for the development of the country, fostering harmony and understanding between civilians and troops, and Cooperation with civilian components in emergency situations.
He highlighted the importance of the UPDF production arm, the National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) in the socio-economic transformation of the country, citing the impact of Uzima water on communities.
The CDF also urged troops to know where they came from, where they are and where they are going as they engage in national defence activities and how they intend to get there.
He noted that the maintenance of stable environment has enabled the growth in infrastructure across the country.
On the issue of the overall security situation in the country, Gen Mbadi noted that the country is generally stable, save for the isolated incidents of cattle theft most especially in Karamoja sub-region and a few cases of insecurity caused by the ADF terrorists to residents in Kasese and Bundibugyo districts.
He appreciated that the Joint security capabilities against ADF by both UPDF and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo, (FARDC) has scaled down the ADF strength, adding that they now operate in small groups, prompting the change of tactics so as to deal with the splinter groups.
He added that UPDF has a mark of peace and security in Central African Republic, DR Congo, Somalia and South Sudan; noting that this is in fulfilment of the Pan African agenda of UPDF.
He commended the President and Commander-In-Chief of the UPDF H.E Gen Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for his distinguished contribution towards developing a modern, efficient and professional force; evidenced from the continuous training opportunities, improvement in troop welfare and acquisition of modern equipment, among others.
Additionally, the CDF assured officers and militants that all their salaries shall be enhanced but in phases, noting that they have already enhanced salaries from senior officers to Generals. He explained that others will follow suit in the next financial year.
Gen Mbadi warned troops to desist from engaging in bad habits like over drinking, desertion and promiscuity among others.
He concluded by imploring troops to utilize services provided by the UPDF leadership like the health care and education services, clean water, power and subsidised products at the Defence Forces Shops, spread out in different parts of the Forces’ deployment u order to improve their standards of living.
The CDF was accompanied at the meeting by the Commander of the UPDF Motorized Infantry Brig Gen Charles Byanyima, Commandant of the Nakasongola Air force Wing, Brig Gen Chris Kasaija and Officers from the Field Artillery Division Col Ouma among other General Officers and Senior Officers.