Published on 27/08/2024
General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Chief of Defence Forces, inaugurated the groundbreaking for the cutting-edge Joint Headquarters of the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs and Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces in Mbuya today. This landmark project symbolizes a new era of defense excellence and collaboration. The ceremony marks a significant leap forward in Uganda’s military infrastructure.
“It is of strategic importance that the MoDVA headquarters are accommodated in a modern and comfortable setting. This directly contributes to the operation efficiency, coordination, and capabilities of the UPDF. Our new headquarters will incorporate the latest technology and infrastructure to support a modern defence strategy,” said Gen Kainerugaba.
He expressed confidence in the UPDF leadership’s dedication to excellence in defence and security, noting that the new state-of-the-art headquarters will embody the nation’s strength and resilience.
Gen Kainerugaba, also the Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations, expressed gratitude to the Ugandan government, specifically the President and Commander-in-Chief, for their support in bringing the project to fruition. He noted that the new headquarters will enhance decision-making, foster improved coordination between the Joint Staff and Services, and ultimately bolster national security.
He expressed gratitude to the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces for undertaking the construction of a decent and honourable Joint headquarters of the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs/UPDF, which he said will be worthy of the name of the UPDF. He expressed hope that the construction will be executed in two years as opposed to the estimated three years.
Maj Gen Jack Bakasumba, the Chief of Joint Staff said that the project to be undertaken by the UPDF Engineers is a significant step in the commitment to the professionalisation of the UPDF guided by His Excellency the President and spearheaded by the Chief of Defence Forces. “For long, the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs/UPDF has not had decent headquarters and now the reality of having one is unfolding before us,” said Maj Gen Bakasumba.
He appreciated the Chief of Defence Forces for his leadership, strategic guidance, and unwavering support in ensuring that the construction takes shape and is executed. “It is a fulfillment of your strategic priorities, that is infrastructure development in the UPDF and the Ministry.”
Mrs. Edith Butuuro the Ministry’s Under-secretary of Finance and Administration, announced that the estimated cost of the multi-billion project stands at Shs94 billion, with an initial allocation of Shs20 billion. She applauded General Kainerugaba’s leadership in driving the project forward, recognizing his efforts to secure resources and prioritize the construction of the headquarters. Mrs. Butuuro committed to supporting the mobilization of additional funds to ensure the project’s timely completion.
The function was attended by the Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, Lt Gen Sam Okiding; Commander UPDF – Air Force, Lt Gen Charles Okidi; Commander Special Forces Command, Maj Gen BD Mugisha, Service Chiefs of Staff, Members of the Joint Staff, Generals, Senior Officers and Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs officials.
