UPDF Delegation Visits Kenya Defence Forces Welfare Services

Nairobi – A delegation from the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has conducted a benchmarking visit to the Defence Forces Welfare Services (DEFWES) in Nairobi, Kenya, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen welfare systems for military personnel and their families.

The visit, which took place at the DEFWES Headquarters in Moi Air Base, Eastleigh, focused on promoting bilateral cooperation and sharing best practices in areas such as housing, healthcare, education, and post-service support.

The UPDF team was led by Deputy Commander Land Force, Major General Francis Takirwa, and received by Brigadier Peter Limo, Managing Director of DEFWES.

Brig Limo briefed the delegation on Kenya’s comprehensive welfare framework, including veterans’ support programs, cooperative societies, and sustainable income-generating initiatives designed to empower service members and their dependents.

The Ugandan delegation also paid a courtesy call on the Commander of the Kenya Air Force, Major General Bernard Waliaula, who encouraged them to identify and adopt best practices that could strengthen welfare systems within the UPDF.

During the visit, the team toured the DEFWES Headquarters warehouse and DEFWES Mall in Embakasi, where they gained insights into the institution’s operational structure and welfare service delivery.

Speaking at the end of the engagement, Major General Takirwa commended the Kenya Defence Forces for their structured and innovative approach to welfare management. He emphasised the importance of regional collaboration in improving the quality of life for service members across East Africa.

“We thank the DEFWES leadership for sharing valuable insights into your Defence Welfare Service. By the end of this visit, we shall emulate and adapt the lessons learned to enhance our own systems,” he said.

The UPDF delegation included Uganda’s Defence Attaché to Kenya, Brigadier General Mc Kamugira, General Manager Defence Force Shop Uganda Limited (DEFSUL), Brigadier General Metland Bitumbika, and DEFSUL Company Secretary, Major Seth Ngabirano.