Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Uganda Monitor
Published on 2024-03-28 18:20:01
Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, also known as the First Son, recently assumed office as the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) on March 28, taking over from Gen Wilson Mbadi who was appointed State Minister for Trade by President Yoweri Museveni. The handover ceremony, which occurred at the 4th Division Headquarters in Gulu, was overseen by Gen Caleb Akandwanabo, also known as Salim Saleh, the Special Presidential Advisor on Defence and Security and Chief Coordinator of Operation Wealth Creation (OWC).
As the 13th CDF, Gen Muhoozi pledged to enhance the welfare of soldiers by combatting corruption and resource mismanagement. He emphasized that the Uganda Peoples Defence Forces (UPDF) will maintain professionalism, morality, and address comprehensive national security challenges under his leadership. In his acceptance speech, he underscored the importance of the UPDF as the cornerstone of Uganda’s national integrity and called on all Ugandans to respect and support the work of the armed forces.
Gen Muhoozi commended his predecessor for fostering a modern and professional military and urged soldiers to refrain from complacency and continuously strive for excellence. He highlighted the significance of eradicating corruption and mismanagement in order to provide soldiers with the best equipment, uniforms, education, welfare, and accommodation. He expressed his commitment to working closely with every soldier to fulfill the expectations placed on the armed forces.
Furthermore, Gen Muhoozi encouraged troops to uphold their role as defenders of African interests by embracing emerging technologies. His immediate priorities include continuing the fight against ADF rebels in eastern DR Congo, addressing cattle rustling in the Karamoja Sub-region, and combating cyber terrorism.
Gen Mbadi congratulated Gen Muhoozi on his new appointment and praised President Museveni for entrusting him with the leadership of the military. Despite the achievements of the UPDF, Gen Mbadi highlighted ongoing challenges such as inadequate budget allocation and external threats from extremist organizations, cybercrimes, and livestock theft.
Gen Muhoozi now joins a distinguished list of top army chiefs who have served in the past, including Gen David Rubakuba Muhoozi, Gen Edward Katumba Wamala, Late Gen Aronda Nyakairima, Late Maj Gen James Kazini, and Gen Caleb Akandwanabo, among others. The handover ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials from the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, UPDAF, External Security Organisation (ESO), and Operation Wealth Creation.
In conclusion, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s appointment as CDF marks a new chapter in the leadership of the UPDF, with a renewed focus on professionalism, integrity, and national security. His commitment to enhancing the welfare of soldiers and addressing critical security challenges demonstrates his dedication to upholding the legacy of the armed forces in Uganda.
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