Defence Minister Kiryowa Kiwanuka Praises UPDF Veterans Welfare Improvements

KAMPALA: The Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Kiryowa Kiwanuka, has commended the Directorate of Veteran Affairs for its efforts in improving the welfare of Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) veterans, saying the progress registered has significantly enhanced their resettlement and reintegration into civilian life.

He made the remarks during a Directorate of Veteran Affairs Headquarters at Postel Building in Kampala where he praised the leadership and staff of the directorate for implementing programmes that have positively impacted veterans and their families.

The Minister was accompanied by the Minister of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs (Veteran Affairs), Huda Oleru Abason, and staff of the directorate.

In his remarks, Kiryowa emphasized the need for timely payment of veterans’ benefits and the swift resolution of welfare-related concerns to facilitate their smooth resettlement within communities.

He noted that maintaining strong ties between the UPDF and its veterans remains essential, describing veterans as ambassadors of the institution in the communities where they live.

“We must maintain the symbolic relationship between the UPDF and our veterans because that is where they come from. They are our image in the community, and if they are left miserable, it could have long-term implications for future generations who aspire to serve in the armed forces,” he said.

Kiryowa also stressed the importance of accountability and prudent resource management, calling on the directorate to ensure value for money in all activities undertaken on behalf of veterans.

On capacity-building initiatives, particularly at the Defence Forces Rehabilitation and Vocational Centre, Kiryowa urged the directorate to make greater use of existing UPDF professionals in training programmes.

He observed that serving and former UPDF personnel possess a deeper understanding of veterans’ backgrounds and challenges, making them well positioned to support rehabilitation and reintegration efforts.

Minister Huda Oleru Abason, thanked Kiryowa for visiting the directorate and pledged to intensify efforts aimed at improving the welfare of veterans.

She commended the staff of the Directorate of Veteran Affairs for their dedication over the past five years, noting that their efforts had contributed to a significant reduction in the pension backlog, improved veterans’ welfare, and ensured that sick veterans receive the support and care they require.

“I pledge to continue advocating for veterans and leave no stone unturned in addressing their concerns,” she said.

Among those present were the Director of Veteran Affairs, Brig. Gen. (Rtd) Emmanuel Musinguzi; the Chief of Staff – Reserve Force, Brig. Gen. Mwanjje Ssekiranda; the Deputy Director Pension, Gratuity and Compensation, Lt. Col. Onesmus Amanya; the Commissioner for Reintegration, Resettlement and Production, Mike Wambi Mabonga; the Assistant Commissioner for Reintegration, Resettlement and Production, Arthur Kamya; and other staff officers from the directorate.

In a related development, the Reserve Force Service conducted a handover ceremony for the office of Director Logistics.

During the ceremony, Col. David Edimu handed over responsibilities to Lt. Col. Benon Katariswerwa.

The event was presided over by Brig. Gen. Mwanjje Ssekiranda and attended by directors and staff officers from across the Reserve Force Service.