Sam Okiding has called on Uganda’s Defence Attachés and Advisors accredited to missions abroad to remain proactive, disciplined and coordinated in advancing the country’s national interests through military diplomacy and international security cooperation.
Speaking at the closing of a three-day retreat held at the Defence Intelligence and Security Headquarters in Mbuya, Kampala, Lt Gen Okiding described the officers as ambassadors of Uganda abroad whose mandate goes beyond representation to strategic engagement in support of national objectives.
“Defence advisors are strategic instruments of power. Your role is to strategically advise and conduct military diplomacy, support operations other than war, and provide security assistance and cooperation,” he said.
Lt Gen Okiding urged the attachés to remain focused and maintain high levels of discipline throughout their foreign assignments, stressing that they operate at the centre of Uganda’s national interests.
“You are there because of Uganda’s national interests. You are modern instruments of national power. Continue serving Uganda with loyalty and utmost discipline,” he said.
He commended the officers for what he described as professionalism and integrity in representing Uganda abroad.
“On this one, you have done well. You have scored very highly and we have no problem with you,” Okiding added.
At the opening of the retreat, the Chief of Joint Staff, Jack Bakasumba, underscored the strategic role of defence attachés in advancing Uganda’s international interests and safeguarding the country’s image.
“Your major role is to present and protect Uganda’s strategic interests by working closely with ambassadors and heads of diplomatic missions. Make friends for Uganda and be as responsible as possible,” Bakasumba said.
He also warned officers against indiscipline and corruption, saying integrity remains central to service within the Uganda People's Defence Force.
“UPDF is now number one in the fight against indiscipline. If you have any doubt on your integrity, you’ll never get any office,” he said.
Meanwhile, Col Allan Matsiko, the Assistant Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security in charge of Defence Engagements and International Affairs, speaking on behalf of the Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security, said the retreat was organised to deepen officers’ understanding of their mandate and Uganda’s strategic direction abroad.
“As Defence advisors and attachés, you remain a critical extension of Uganda’s national security and strategic engagement architecture abroad. You are not only representatives of the UPDF but also strategic instruments for defence diplomacy, military partnerships and protection of Uganda’s interests abroad,” Matsiko said.
The retreat aimed at inducting officers into diplomatic norms and strengthening their understanding of Uganda’s foreign policy priorities, including the expectations attached to their respective missions.
It also focused on improving coordination and information sharing, strengthening engagement with international partners, and promoting Uganda’s trade, investment, industrial and technological interests in countries where the officers are deployed.
The programme further featured engagements with key diplomatic stakeholders, including officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Uganda Tourism Board.
