By Lazarus Apunyo
The Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) has retired 82 lower-ranking officers who have been serving in the 3rd Infantry Division, with a call on them not to waste their retirement package but instead invest in income generating ventures.
The retirement ceremony attended by local leaders and top security officials among other dignitaries took place at the division’s headquarters in Moroto on Wednesday, July 29, 2025.
Speaking at the event, Maj. Gen. Wilberforce Sserunkuma, the Commander 3rd Infantry Division said that the 82 officers comprising 13 warrant officers and 69 privates are part of over 600 junior and non-commissioned officers who were retired from the service at the Uganda People’s Defence Forces.
He explained that this is simply a transition into the reserve force, meaning they can still be called upon for missions, including international Peace keeping efforts where UPDF is involved.
Maj. Gen. Sserunkuma extolled the retirees for their contribution to combating insurgencies and pursuing peace and security.
He acknowledged the critical role the soldiers played in pacifying Karamoja Sub-region especially during intense periods of cattle raids.
“Your contribution to restoring peace will never be forgotten. You served with honor, and you did it let down the commander in Chief and the people Karamoja when we needed you most,” said Maj. Gen. Sserunkuma remarked.
He advised to behave in a manner that is respectful to their community members with whom they are now going to live for the rest of their lives.
“It’s important to conduct yourself in a way that earns you respect within the community. You should avoid indulging in vices like alcohol abuse, which could lead to dispute, you being now being outside the UPDF doesn’t mean you are a troublemaker. You should instead use your leadership traits to guide your communities out of poverty. Maj. Gen. Sserunkuma advised.
He said that retirees should view retirement as another opportunity to contribute to the society beyond active duty, cautioning them against wasting their retirement package as this could make them live in regret.
“Many of you are going to get a hefty package for the first and last time, avoid deals for quick money and use the money to invest in simple easy projects like goat farming, poultry among other,” said Maj. Gen. Sserunkuma.
He reminded the retirees that civilian life would present new challenges and this requires them to adapt to a mindset of hard work and self-sufficiency.
Jimmy Onyuthfua, who retired at the rank of warrant officer after serving in the force for 38 years was thankful to God for protecting him from deadly wars and attacks during his time of service.
“I am very happy to retire from the force while still alive and without any disabilities. Many of my colleagues were killed in war, while others sustained serious injuries that left them disabled. I am retiring without any injuries on my body as a result of a bullet, and for that, I say thank you, God”, said Onyuthfua.
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