UPDF Officers and Militants have been reminded of the importance of retirement from army service more especially for the continuous protection of peace and security.
This remark was made by the UPDF Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen Wilson Mbadi, during his mobilization tour of troops at Field Artillery Division Headquarters, in Masindi District.
Gen. Mbadi implored the 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.
This year, UPDF is set to retire more than 1,000 army personnel including both senior and low-ranking officers. Gen. Mbadi expressed his gratitude to the work done by the retiring troops towards the protection of their country.
“An old force is not good for National Defence and therefore retirement is necessary,” he emphasized, adding that doing national Defence requires an energetic force that is also flexible and agile.
Gen Mbadi also reminded the serving 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.
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.
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 fulfillment 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.
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.