By Caroline Nakire
The Special Forces Command (SFC) has paid tribute to 67 officers and men as they prepare to retire from active service in the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).
The personnel were honoured on Friday, 7 August 2026, during a ceremony held to recognise their years of dedicated service and contribution to national security.
The group comprised four Captains, 17 Lieutenants, 23 Warrant Officers, nine Staff Sergeants, 12 Sergeants and two Corporals.
Some of the senior officers honoured at the ceremony are expected to receive their retirement certificates during the official UPDF retirement ceremony scheduled for 12 August 2026 at the UPDF Joint Headquarters in Mbuya.
The Director of Human Resource Management at SFC, Col. Night Ikiriza, described the personnel as dedicated members of the UPDF who had demonstrated courage, discipline and loyalty throughout their military careers.
While reading their retirement citations, Col. Ikiriza also acknowledged the contribution of their spouses and families, noting that their support and sacrifices had enabled the personnel to fulfil their duties over the years.
Representing the Commander-SFC, the Chief of Staff-SFC, Brig. Gen. John Mango Baraza, commended the departing personnel for their contribution to military operations, VVIP protection, peace support missions and other strategic assignments.
He noted that military service often required personnel to operate in difficult and risky environments while spending extended periods away from their families.
“Many of you have endured challenges in the course of duty, including long periods away from your families, working in risky environments and accepting sacrifices without hesitation,” Brig. Gen. Baraza said.
As they transition to civilian life, Brig. Gen. Baraza encouraged the personnel to use the knowledge, skills and experience gained during their military careers to contribute positively to their communities.
He urged them to maintain the discipline, integrity, patriotism and resilience developed during their service and assured them of continued support from the UPDF through the Directorate of Veteran Affairs.
Speaking on behalf of the honourees, Capt. Boaz Barigye Kazinduki, the senior-most among the junior officers, expressed appreciation to the UPDF and SFC leadership for the guidance, opportunities and support provided throughout their service.
He also thanked the families of the departing personnel for standing by them and making sacrifices throughout their military careers.
The ceremony was attended by brigade commanders, directors, officers, non-commissioned officers, spouses and relatives of the honourees.
UPDF personnel and invited guests pose for a group photograph during the ceremony.