The Commandant of the Defence Forces Rehabilitation and Vocational Centre of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), Brigadier General Moses Kwikiriza, has urged retiring soldiers to view retirement not as a punishment but as a transition and an opportunity to continue serving their communities in different capacities.
Brig Gen Kwekiriza made the remarks during an ongoing documentation and sensitisation exercise for 120 retirees at the Defence Forces Rehabilitation and Vocational Centre ahead of their scheduled retirement in July this year.
The exercise focused on proper documentation, financial discipline, and preparation for civilian life.
He appreciated the Commander-in-Chief for the continued support extended to veterans, including those living with disabilities, and commended the retirees for their dedicated contribution towards peace and stability in the country.
Brigadier General Romeo Ndyabagye, the Director of Records, urged the retirees to uphold discipline, patriotism, and loyalty to the state even after leaving active service.
“As you retire from active duty, remain healthy, responsible citizens, and continue being loyal to the nation,” he said.
The Deputy Director of Pensions, Lieutenant Colonel Onesmus Amanya, underscored the importance of financial discipline in managing retirement packages to avoid future regrets.
Other officials who attended the exercise included Lieutenant Colonel Kenneth Wabwire, Head of Information and Documentation; Lieutenant Colonel GN Twesigye, Head of Security and Investigation; Major Kenneth Nyakamwe, Political Commissar in the Department of Pension and Gratuity; and Mweru Samuel Byachi from the Department of Rehabilitation, Psychosocial Support and Resettlement.
The Defence Forces Rehabilitation and Vocational Centre focuses on providing physical and psycho-social rehabilitation and support to disabled combatants and their families.
The Centre also rehabilitates and equips eligible UPDF soldiers with vocational skills aimed at restoring their health, dignity, and livelihoods, while preparing them for redeployment or productive post-service employment.
