The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has started retiring 1,791 personnel under Batch 16, including senior officers, junior officers and militants, as part of its annual retirement programme.
According to Acting Director of Defence Public Information Col Chris Magezi, the exercise has already begun across military formations and units nationwide.
The batch includes 205 junior officers and 1,364 militants, who will retire from their respective units after completing their service to the country.
The UPDF will also retire 222 senior officers during a ceremony at the Joint Services Headquarters in Mbuya on August 12, 2026. The event will recognise their leadership and contribution to the force during their years of service.
Magezi said the retirement exercise honours personnel who have served with courage, discipline and commitment. He added that both junior and senior officers have played an important role in protecting Uganda’s sovereignty and supporting regional peace and stability.
He said the force would announce the retirement ceremony for 19 general officers at a later date to ensure they receive a send-off that reflects their service at the highest level of command.
The retirement programme is part of the UPDF’s efforts to renew its ranks while recognising officers and soldiers who have completed their military careers.
Col Magezi said the force remains committed to building a professional, disciplined and modern military. He added that the retirement ceremonies demonstrate the UPDF’s respect for its personnel and its commitment to the values of patriotism, duty and honour.