UPDF seeks more funds to boost local artillery production

The Minister for Defence and Veteran Affairs, Jackson Oboth Oboth, has called for increased funding to support the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) in scaling up its capacity to locally produce artillery and other military equipment.

The move is aimed at reducing Uganda's reliance on foreign suppliers and positioning the country as a key player in the global defense industry.

Speaking during a memorial event for the late General Aronda Nyakairima, a former Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Minister Oboth Oboth highlighted the progress made by the UPDF's National Enterprise Corporation (NEC), the commercial arm of the army.

NEC has been instrumental in developing military hardware such as bullets, armored vehicles, and body armor, as part of an initiative started by General Nyakairima before his death.

"We are already saving over $1.2 million annually by handling repairs and production domestically. This includes transportation savings, such as the cost of sending helicopters abroad for repairs," said Oboth Oboth.

He emphasized that expanding local production would not only increase savings but also boost Uganda’s defense capabilities.

The minister revealed that NEC has drawn up a strategic development plan, which includes establishing a research and development hub to enhance local production of artillery.

However, he lamented that progress is being hindered by insufficient funding, calling on the government to allocate more resources to fully realize the potential of these projects.

"We need to focus on building a sustainable capacity to manufacture on a larger scale. If we do this, Uganda can become less dependent on foreign nations for weaponry," Oboth Oboth added.

The UPDF’s long-term goal is to develop a defense industry that could supply military equipment not only to Uganda but also to other African nations. Oboth Oboth stressed that with adequate support, Uganda could become a key player in the African defense market.

State Minister for Planning, Amos Lugoloobi, acknowledged the efforts of the UPDF and NEC. He assured the defense ministry that his office is working to secure the necessary funds, although he cautioned that spending must be carefully managed.

As Uganda seeks to strengthen its military independence, the focus on local production of defense equipment marks a significant shift towards self-reliance. The legacy of General Aronda Nyakairima, who championed the start of these efforts, continues to shape the future of Uganda’s defense sector.

This development comes at a time when Uganda is aiming to enhance its military capabilities while contributing to regional security through homegrown solutions. If successful, the UPDF could potentially join the ranks of African countries with indigenous military manufacturing capacity, aligning with the government's broader goals of industrialization and economic growth.