The Armoured Division Commander of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), Brig Gen Pande Kajuba, has called on young people to embrace agriculture, skills development, pan-Africanism and patriotism as key drivers of sustainable socio-economic transformation.
He made the remarks while handing over Shs1 million donated by the Armoured Division to the Hafisa Magezi Foundation, a community-based initiative that supports the girl child, vulnerable people and promotes agricultural livelihoods through the distribution of coffee seedlings in the Ssaza area and neighbouring districts in Masaka.
Brig Gen Kajuba said the UPDF remains committed not only to security operations but also to supporting socio-economic transformation within communities.
“The army no longer only fights in the bush. We are also fighting poverty. We should acquire skills that empower us to improve our livelihoods. Agriculture and other productive activities are key to sustainable development,” he said.
He added that supporting civil society initiatives is part of the UPDF’s wider role in promoting stability, development and community empowerment.
On behalf of the Hafisa Magezi Foundation, Sheikh Ashraf expressed appreciation to the UPDF and the Armoured Division for their continued support towards community projects and for maintaining a strong partnership with civilians.
The event was attended by the Deputy Division Commander, Brig Gen Wilson Bagonza; Division Administrative Officer Col David Kiirya Bamutaze; Division Maintenance Officer Lt Col Charles Lubega, among other UPDF officials.
