Outgoing Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs Jacob Marksons Oboth-Oboth has commended the professionalism, discipline and dedication of personnel at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MODVA), describing the institution as one where service to the nation takes precedence above all else.
Oboth-Oboth made the remarks on Wednesday during a handover ceremony at the Joint Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs and Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Headquarters in Mbuya, where he formally handed over office to the newly appointed Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Kiryowa Kiwanuka.
The ceremony also marked the assumption of office by the newly appointed Minister of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs (Veterans), Dr Huda Abason Oleru, and the Minister of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs (Defence), Grace Akifeza Ngabirano.
Reflecting on his tenure, Oboth-Oboth described serving as Defence Minister as both a privilege and a profound responsibility.
He credited the ministry's achievements to the commitment of its civilian staff and UPDF personnel, saying their dedication had enabled the institution to effectively deliver on its mandate.
“This is the only ministry or government institution where everyone works. It has dedicated personnel who are always ready to serve,” he said.
Oboth-Oboth paid tribute to Permanent Secretary Rosette Byengoma and Chief of Defence Forces and Senior Presidential Advisor on Special Operations Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba for their commitment to the ministry’s work.
He particularly applauded Gen. Muhoozi’s leadership, citing infrastructure developments undertaken during his stewardship, including the construction of the ministry headquarters perimeter wall and additional facilities.
The outgoing minister expressed confidence in Kiryowa Kiwanuka’s ability to build on the gains made by the ministry and advance Uganda’s defence agenda.
“I am very confident that under your stewardship, the ministry will build upon the achievements made and continue advancing Uganda’s defence and veteran affairs agenda,” he said.
Upon taking office, Kiryowa thanked President Yoweri Museveni for entrusting him with the portfolio and pledged to strengthen national security while ensuring adherence to the rule of law.
The former Attorney General said modern security challenges extend beyond traditional border threats and increasingly include terrorism, cybercrime and climate-related risks.
“A nation’s defence must be lawful, and a lawful defence must be strong,” Kiryowa said.
He pledged to ensure that ministry activities, procurement processes and policy implementation remain grounded in the law while responding effectively to emerging security threats.
Kiryowa also committed to improving the welfare of veterans, including addressing delays in the payment of pensions and other benefits.
Meanwhile, Minister of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs (Veterans) Dr Huda Abason Oleru thanked President Museveni and the UPDF leadership for the confidence placed in her.
She pledged to strengthen programmes that improve veterans’ access to pensions, healthcare, livelihood support and other services.
“My priority will be to strengthen programmes that improve access to pensions, healthcare, livelihood support and other services that promote dignity and the well-being of those who served our nation,” she said.
Minister of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs (Defence) Grace Akifeza Ngabirano pledged to build on the legacy of her predecessor, the late Sarah Mateke, and contribute to the ministry’s continued success.
“I am happy to be joining at a time when we are embracing the spirit of ‘Kisanja Hakuna Mchezo.’ I believe in hard work and results. With the committed forces surrounding us, the sky will be the limit for Uganda,” she said.
Permanent Secretary Rosette Byengoma described Oboth-Oboth as a hardworking, approachable and dedicated leader whose tenure was marked by humility, openness and teamwork.
She said his open-door leadership style encouraged collaboration and supported staff in executing the ministry’s mandate.
“His remarkable sense of humour brought people together, eased tensions during demanding moments and contributed to a positive and productive working environment,” Byengoma said.
She noted that the ministry registered several notable achievements during his tenure and expressed confidence that he would continue to excel in his new role.
Byengoma also welcomed the incoming ministers and assured them of the ministry’s full support.
Deputy Chief of Defence Forces Lt. Gen. Sam Okiding described the ministry and the UPDF as a unique institutional family and welcomed the new leadership team.
“We go by God’s choice, especially on matters concerning our well-being. Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds us that there is a time for everything,” he said.
Okiding also commended Kiryowa for his previous collaboration with the military during his tenure as Attorney General and pledged the UPDF’s continued support.
“Your role is to provide leadership and direction, and we shall do the work,” he said.
The ceremony was attended by senior ministry officials, UPDF commanders, generals, commissioners and other staff members.