Hon Huda Oleru Calls For Innovation And Collaboration At DVA Staff Event

Hon Huda Abason Oleru, Minister of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs (Veteran Affairs), has emphasised the importance of open communication and innovation within the Directorate of Veteran Affairs (DVA), urging department heads to cultivate a supportive and collaborative environment.

Addressing staff at the DVA’s end-of-year party in Kampala yesterday, Hon Oleru stressed the need for teamwork and warned against leadership styles that instil fear among employees. The event aimed to strengthen the relationship between the Minister and the Directorate’s staff, offering an opportunity to reflect on past achievements and set future goals.

Hon Oleru expressed her gratitude to the President and Commander-in-Chief Gen (Rtd) Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for appointing her to the role, a position she described as closely aligned with her passion for serving Uganda’s veterans.

Brig Gen (Rtd) Emmanuel Musinguzi, Director of Veteran Affairs, shared reflections from his 40-year military career and five years in veteran affairs. He recognised the Directorate’s early challenges but highlighted the role of teamwork in improving pension and gratuity services for veterans.

Mr Mabonga Mike, Commissioner for Resettlement, Psycho-Social Support, and Rehabilitation, also praised the unwavering dedication of the UPDF leadership and DVA staff, which he said had significantly enhanced the Directorate’s performance.

At the event, several staff members, including Ms Beatrice Basemera, Mr Bwendero George, Ms Asumpta, and Mr Kimono Paul, were honoured for their outstanding contributions to the Directorate.

The celebration brought together senior and junior UPDF officers, legal aid clinic officials, and civilian staff.