President Yoweri Museveni has been commended for transforming Uganda’s military into a professional force as 52 officers from the Special Forces Command (SFC) retired in a dignified ceremony. The event, held at the SFC headquarters in Entebbe, celebrated the decades of service by the retiring soldiers, who included eight senior officers and 44 other ranks.

Major General David Mugisha, the SFC commander, praised President Museveni for his leadership in modernizing the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF). He said the President had turned the army from a guerrilla force into a respected institution with a clear retirement system that honors soldiers when their service ends.

“Today, our brothers and sisters retire with their heads high, satisfied with the system they served,” Maj. Gen. Mugisha said. “This was not the case in the past, when retirement often meant fading away without recognition.”

He also thanked General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Chief of Defence Forces, for improving soldiers’ welfare and creating a smooth retirement process. “Because of his efforts, every soldier now leaves service with dignity and financial support,” he added.

The retiring officers had served for between 16 and 36 years, with many having worked in dangerous and secretive missions to protect Uganda’s security. Maj. Gen. Mugisha praised their sacrifices, saying they had defended the country with courage and discipline.

“You have served in silence, in danger, and in places many will never know,” he told them. “You have protected our leaders, our institutions, and our sovereignty.”

He advised the retirees to use their retirement packages wisely by investing in agriculture or small businesses instead of risky ventures. “The battlefield may change, but your mission continues in your homes and communities,” he said. “Remain ambassadors of the UPDF’s values.”

Colonel John Mango Baraza, the SFC’s Director of Human Resource Management, said retirement was a key part of building a professional army. He explained that it allows for new leaders to rise while giving veterans a chance to start new lives outside the military.

“Retirement is not an end but a new adventure,” he said. “It gives you time with family and opportunities to contribute to Uganda’s development.”

Lieutenant Colonel Fred Mwesigwa, one of the retiring senior officers, thanked President Museveni for modernizing the army. He said the UPDF had greatly improved under his leadership, adopting new technologies and strategies to handle modern security challenges.

“The President’s vision has made the UPDF one of the most effective forces in Africa,” he said. He urged fellow retirees to remain active in nation-building and to represent the army’s values in civilian life.

Captain Emmy Rubonga, speaking for the retiring junior officers, also expressed gratitude to the President and military leaders for their support. “We leave the army as better citizens, ready to serve our country in new ways,” he said.

The ceremony was attended by senior military officials, including Brigadier General Paul Namawa, the SFC Chief of Staff, and Colonel Wilson Bagonza, commander of the 3rd Special Forces Group. Their presence highlighted the importance of the event and the military’s commitment to honoring its veterans.

The retirement of these 52 officers marks another step in the UPDF’s journey toward full professionalism. Unlike in the past, when soldiers often left service without proper recognition, today’s retirees exit with certificates, benefits, and the respect of their peers.

President Museveni’s reforms have not only improved the army’s efficiency but also ensured that those who serve are well taken care of, even after their military careers end. As these veterans begin new chapters, their experience and discipline will continue to benefit Uganda in different ways.

The event was a reminder that in a strong army, retirement is not an afterthought but a celebrated milestone, one that honors sacrifice and prepares soldiers for meaningful lives beyond the barracks.