The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has commenced construction of its first-ever military funeral home at the Land Forces Headquarters in Bombo.
The facility will be the first in the country and only the second of its kind in East Africa.
The groundbreaking ceremony was officiated by Joseph Ssemwanga, who represented the Commander of Land Forces.
In his remarks, Maj Gen Ssemwanga acknowledged the UPDF Members of Parliament in the 11th Parliament for securing funding for the project.
“We extend our appreciation to the 11th UPDF Members of Parliament for funding this project. We pray that the 12th Parliament will continue where the 11th left off,” he said.
Maj Gen Ssemwanga explained that the funeral home will offer comprehensive services, including body preparation, viewing, prayers, documentary displays of fallen soldiers, transportation, and final send-offs.
Chris Bagonza praised the initiative, noting its importance in honouring and documenting the lives of departed comrades.
“The idea of having a UPDF funeral home is to mourn our departed comrades in a dignified manner, eulogise them, and to document our history,” Brig Gen Bagonza said.
Victoria Nekesa explained that the project drew on lessons from a benchmarking visit to Lee Funeral Home, which helped shape the design, management, and operational standards for the new facility.
“The visit aimed to adopt best practices in the design, management, and operation of a modern funeral home, ensuring the UPDF facility is well-managed and efficient,” Col Nekesa said.
The one-acre facility will be a vertical structure with a projected six-month construction period. It will feature a reception area, consultation rooms, a chapel for memorial services, autopsy and body holding areas, administrative offices, and parking for visitors and service providers.
The ceremony was attended by senior UPDF officers, including Patrick Ogwok Ocen, Edward Mutawe, Jennifer Alanyo, and Deborah Nayebare, alongside other directors and departmental staff at Land Forces.
