The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has commenced a retirement sensitisation and documentation exercise for Batch 16 (2026), aimed at preparing senior officers, men and women for transition from active military service to civilian life.
The exercise, being conducted by the Directorate of Pension, Gratuity and Compensation at the Non-Commissioned Officers Academy in Jinja, brings together retiring personnel and a joint technical team from the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs.
The Deputy Joint Staff Human Resource Management, Brigadier General Gerald Ahimbisibwe, said the programme is intended to ensure a smooth, dignified and well-coordinated exit for long-serving officers.
He said retirement marks the end of years of national service defined by sacrifice and discipline.
“The upcoming retirement marks not just the end of a career, but the culmination of years of sacrifice, discipline, patriotism and unwavering commitment to duty and country,” he said.
Brig Gen Ahimbisibwe commended the retirees for adherence to the core values of the UPDF, including loyalty, integrity, courage, and professionalism.
“Throughout your service, you have led troops, safeguarded national interests and contributed to the stability and security that the country enjoys today,” he said.
He urged participants to approach the documentation process with honesty, seriousness, and cooperation to ensure a smooth clearance process.
The Director of Pension, Gratuity and Compensation, Brig Gen Julius Biryabarema, encouraged retirees to maintain discipline beyond service and invest retirement benefits in productive ventures.
“Use your retirement packages in productive ventures that will generate sustainable income and support your livelihoods,” he said.
He also urged them to continue serving as ambassadors of the UPDF in their communities after retirement.
The Principal Human Resource Officer at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Mr Stephen Komunda Sajja, advised retirees to prepare early for civilian life with clear financial and personal plans.
“You must prepare for retirement with a positive attitude, clear vision and defined objectives. Manage your expenditures carefully and identify professional opportunities that will sustain you,” he said.
Mr Sajja cautioned against poor financial management, urging retirees to avoid unnecessary loans and adopt disciplined spending habits.
“Remain disciplined and orderly, be frugal with your retirement packages, avoid unnecessary loans and make careful personal decisions in retirement,” he said.
The exercise forms part of the UPDF’s structured transition programme designed to support personnel exiting active service and ease their integration into civilian life.
