The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba launched the construction of a state-of-the-art joint headquarters for the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs in Mbuya, Kampala, on Monday afternoon.
He stated that the new facility will enhance operational efficiency, coordination, and capabilities.
According to Gen Kainerugaba, the multibillion-shilling project will feature cutting-edge technology and infrastructure to “support a modern defence strategy.”
He emphasized, “We are not only building for today, we are also building for tomorrow. So, this building will take that into consideration.”
He further noted, “We will be building a sustainable and future-ready headquarters.”
The CDF congratulated the UPDF on reaching this significant milestone, highlighting the importance of constructing a headquarters “worthy of the name of the UPDF.”
Edith Butuuro, the Ministry’s Undersecretary of Finance and Administration, who represented the permanent secretary at the event, disclosed that the project is expected to cost about Shs94 billion.
Gen Kainerugaba described the launch of the project as “a journey of building a decent and honourable ministry of defence and veteran affairs/UPDF headquarters.”
While the engineers projected a three-year timeline for completion, Gen Kainerugaba indicated his preference for a shorter construction period, stating, “Three years sounds like a long time.”
Reflecting on the previous defence headquarters, Gen Kainerugaba acknowledged that they had been a source of embarrassment compared to those of neighbouring countries. “It has not been a good image for the UPDF,” he said, adding, “We were suffering that terrible embarrassment, but thank God today we’re remedying that problem.”
Gen Kainerugaba, who also serves as the senior presidential advisor for special operations, expressed his gratitude to President Yoweri Museveni for supporting the initiative.
He said the project demonstrates the government’s commitment to national security and defence, with anticipated benefits including improved decision-making processes and better coordination among various defence units.
He reaffirmed the UPDF leadership’s commitment to upholding the highest standards in defence and security.
Chief Joint Staff Maj Gen Jack Bakasumba, speaking at the event, thanked Gen Kainerugaba for his support in ensuring the project’s commencement.
The project committee, which comprises 11 members, aligns with the CDF’s strategic priorities. Maj Gen Bakasumba revealed that Shs10 billion was allocated for the project last year, with an additional Shs10 billion to be released in the second quarter of this financial year. The construction will be executed by UPDF engineers.
Butuuro assured Gen Kainerugaba of the Ministry’s support in mobilizing resources for the project’s construction, citing his previous successful undertakings, such as the construction projects while commanding the SFC and the Shs50 billion mobilized for barracks facilities in Bombo. She described him as “a leader who not only has a heart to command operations but also a heart for the welfare of his people.”
The event was attended by key military officials, including Deputy Chief of Defence Forces Lt Gen Sam Okiding, Chief Joint Staff Maj Gen Jack Bakasumba, Joint Staff Policy and Plans Maj Gen Bob Ogiki, Brig Gen Richard Karemire, head of the UPDF’s joint staff formal education, sports, and culture, and Maj Gen Henry Masiko, Joint Staff – Political Commissariat.13:10
