UPDF Has Transformed Uganda’s Global Image – Hon. Huda Oleru
The Minister of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs (Veteran Affairs), Hon. Huda Abason Oleru, has praised the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces for its discipline, professionalism, and contributions to peacekeeping efforts across Africa.
Speaking in Kyanamukaka, Masaka District, she highlighted the transformation of Uganda’s global image, emphasizing that the UPDF has become a symbol of stability and security in the region.
“People used to associate Uganda with instability, but today, when you mention Uganda, they say UPDF,” Hon. Oleru said.
“Our army is respected not only in Africa but around the world for its discipline and peacekeeping efforts in South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Somalia.”
Reflecting on Uganda’s history, the minister shared her personal experiences of conflict, recalling how difficult life was before the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government took power in 1986.
She urged Ugandans to appreciate the peace and stability they enjoy today, attributing it to the sacrifices made during the liberation struggle.
She also commended the people of Masaka for their historical support of the NRA during the liberation struggle, acknowledging their role in sheltering and assisting the fighters. “You followed the Bible’s teachings by opening your doors to the freedom fighters, guiding them away from danger. If you had not supported them, we would not have the peace we enjoy today.”
Highlighting the UPDF’s integrity, she reassured the public that the army remains free of corruption and dedicated to national service.
Earlier, in Masaka City, Hon. Oleru thanked the people of Masaka for their cooperation and support of the UPDF. She urged them to make good use of the projects that have been given to them.
On the issue of cooperation with the UPDF, she stated that the army had worked to restore the image of the military, contrasting it with previous armies in Uganda, which did not allow for dialogue and engagement with civilians.
The minister urged the people of Masaka City to learn Kiswahili to enhance communication in business. She emphasized that Kiswahili is the official language of the East African Community and serves as a unifying factor among member states.
She further noted that Kiswahili was becoming a widely spoken African language, citing Nigeria as an example where its usage was increasing.
Hon. Richard Sebamala, the Member of Parliament for Bukoto Central, urged his constituents to prioritize unity, accountability, and effective leadership over partisan politics. He emphasized the need for credible leaders who can deliver services rather than those who promote division.
“We are not yellow, we are not red, we are not blue, we are not green; we are for the people. We are for Uganda,” Hon. Sebamala stated, stressing that his constituency values competence over political affiliation.
The Joint Staff Political Commissariat, Maj Gen Henry Masiko, thanked the people of Masaka for their support and appreciation of the UPDF. He remarked that the army belonged to the people, expressing their gratitude by metaphorically stating that they “kneel and thank” their parents for bringing them into the world.
Maj Gen Masiko commended the people of Masaka for their significant contribution to the Tarehe Sita anniversary. He recalled that when the Commander-in-Chief was preparing to attack Kabamba, he launched the mission from Masaka. He added that when the vehicle broke down in Katigonda, the people of Masaka provided another one, enabling him to complete the mission successfully.
Brig Gen Michael Kabango, the Chief of Staff – Land Forces, speaking on behalf of the Chief of Defence Forces, said that Tarehe Sita is an opportunity to thank the wananchi for their support, which has enabled the UPDF to achieve its objectives.
“There is no UPDF without the wananchi. All the success that we have achieved in Somalia and the Democratic Republic of Congo is because of your support,” said Brig. Gen. Kabango.
He encouraged residents to embrace government programs aimed at improving their livelihoods.
Present were: Maj Gen Don Nabasa Joint staff policy and strategy, Brig Gen Moses Wandera Joint for Legal Affairs, Director Civil-Military Cooperation, Brig Gen Michael Kibuye; Resident District/City Commissioners, Religious and District leaders, Senior and Junior Officers of the UPDF and Uganda Police, among.
