The Defence Forces Shop Uganda Limited (DFSUL), a welfare initiative of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), has expanded its network to improve access to affordable essential goods and services for serving personnel, veterans, and their families.
From a single outlet, DFSUL has grown to 13 branches across the country and plans to establish shops at all division headquarters, brigades, and major units.
The expansion was highlighted during the handover ceremony of the Defence Forces Shop general manager at the Land Force Headquarters in Bombo, where Brigadier General Metland Bitumbika handed over office to Colonel Deus Taremwa.
Established as a duty-free outlet for personnel of the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MoDVA) and the UPDF, DFSUL provides a range of products whose taxes are offset through government support, allowing it to sell goods at subsidised prices.
Presiding over the ceremony, the Deputy Chief of Defence Forces and Inspector General, Lieutenant General Sam Okiding, commended Brig Gen Bitumbika, who is set to retire, for his professionalism, dedication, and leadership during his tenure.
He described the outgoing manager’s service record as exemplary and urged Col Taremwa to build on the progress made in strengthening the institution.
“Take this as a critical welfare function of the UPDF so that the strategic objectives of the DFSUL are achieved,” Lt Gen Okiding said.
In an earlier interview, Brig Gen Bitumbika said DFSUL was established to address the welfare needs of soldiers, initially focusing on supplying affordable construction materials after identifying housing as one of the biggest challenges facing personnel.
“We started with building materials because we realised that many soldiers needed support to construct their homes,” he said. “Today, many soldiers are becoming homeowners because they can access materials at affordable prices.”
He said the shop later expanded its product range to include household consumables and other essential commodities as the needs of personnel changed.
Brig Gen Bitumbika added that DFSUL has strengthened partnerships with private sector suppliers to ensure a reliable supply of quality goods.
He thanked the UPDF leadership, especially the Chief of Defence Forces, for the confidence placed in him and recognised the Defence Forces Shop Board, staff, and managers of army shops across the country for their teamwork and commitment.
In his remarks, Col Taremwa thanked the UPDF leadership for entrusting him with the responsibility of leading DFSUL.
He pledged to build on the foundation laid by his predecessor by working with staff and stakeholders to improve efficiency, effectiveness, and service delivery.
He also praised Brig Gen Bitumbika for laying a strong foundation for the continued growth of Defence Forces Shop Uganda Limited.
The ceremony was attended by the Joint Staff Headquarters Brigade Group Commander, Maj Gen Dr Lucky Joseph Kidega; the Chief of Staff Land Forces, Brig Gen Chris Bagonza; the Director Inspectorate, Brig Gen RK Kagyenyi; the Director of Records, Brig Gen DR Ndyabagye; and the Joint Staff Formal Education, Sports and Culture, Brig Gen Richard Karemire.
