Gen Katumba Wamala
The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces will on Thursday, August 20, 2026, officially retire 19 long-serving General Officers at a ceremony to be held at State House Entebbe.
The retirement ceremony will be presided over by President and Commander-in-Chief of the UPDF, Gen Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
Among the General Officers due for retirement are Gen Edward Katumba Wamala, Lt Gen Charles Otema Awany, Lt Gen Charles Angina, Maj Gen Abel Kandiho, Maj Gen Geofrey Katsigazi Tumusiime, Maj Gen Apollo Kasiita-Gowa and Maj Gen Leopold Eric Kyanda.
Others are Brig Gen Edson Muhanguzi, Brig Gen Sam Omara, Brig Gen Fred Zakye, Brig Gen Fred Rugadya Akiiki, Brig Gen Mike Samuel Kisame, Brig Gen Patrick Mwesigye and Brig Gen Stephen Tumwesigye Kashure.
The list is completed by Brig Gen Simon Nicholas Ocan, Brig Gen Metland K. Bitumbika, Brig Gen Charles Bakahumura, Brig Gen Charles Asiimwe Kahangire and Brig Gen Cyril Mawa Muhindo.
According to Col Chris Magezi, Acting Spokesperson of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces, the retirement of the General Officers will formally conclude the UPDF’s August 2026 retirement exercise, which has seen a total of 1,817 officers and militants retired.
“The retirement cohort comprised 19 General Officers, 229 Senior Officers, 205 Junior Officers and 1,364 Militants,” Magezi said in a statement.
Other Senior Officers, Junior Officers and Militants were retired this week at the Joint Services Headquarters in Mbuya, as well as at respective Services and Division Headquarters across the country.
Magezi said the UPDF appreciates the distinguished and dedicated service of the officers and militants who devoted their careers to safeguarding Uganda’s sovereignty, contributing to regional peace and upholding the values of discipline, patriotism and Pan-Africanism.
He added that retirement marks an honourable conclusion to years of service and the beginning of new and productive chapters in the retirees’ lives.
“The institution remains committed to a dignified and transparent retirement process, reflecting respect and admiration for the men and women who have served the nation with loyalty and courage,” Magezi said.
Katumba Reflects on 47 Years of Military Service
The retirement of Gen Katumba Wamala comes after 47 years of military service.
On July 31, 2026, Katumba marked the completion of what he described as a journey defined by dedication, commitment and love for Uganda.
“As I close this chapter, I do so with deep gratitude to God, my comrades, the UPDF and the people of Uganda for the privilege to serve. A lifetime in service. A country forever in my heart,” Katumba said.
Reflecting on his military career, Katumba also acknowledged the role played by President Museveni in shaping his journey.
He recalled that in 1979, Museveni, who was then Minister of Defence in the UNLF Government, encouraged and inspired many Ugandans to join the Army and serve the country.
“In 1979, as Minister of Defence in the UNLF Government, he encouraged and inspired many of us to join the Army and serve our country. That decision has shaped the greater part of my life,” Katumba said.
Katumba said serving under Museveni as Commander-in-Chief had left an indelible mark on his life.
“I remain deeply grateful for the trust, mentorship and opportunity to serve. As I close this chapter of my military career, I recognise the leaders and comrades who shaped the journey. H.E. President Museveni is undoubtedly one of the most significant,” Katumba said in a post on his X account.
The August 20 ceremony at State House Entebbe will therefore mark the formal conclusion of Katumba’s 47-year military career and the retirement of 18 other senior UPDF General Officers.
