news 25 July 2026 Nile Post
Lt Gen Okiding Appoints New Manager to Boost UPDF Soldier Welfare at Defence Forces Shop
Lt. Gen. Sam Okiding has tasked the new General Manager of Defence Forces Shop Uganda Limited (DFSUL), Col. Deus Taremwa, with enhancing the welfare of UPDF soldiers. The handover ceremony saw Brig. Gen. Metland Bitumbika step down after a tenure marked by significant expansion of DFSUL's services. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/359111/lt-gen-okiding-tasks-new-defence-forces-shop-general-manager-with-advancing-updf-welfare
Lieutenant General Sam Okiding, Deputy Chief of Defence Forces and Inspector General, has officially tasked the newly appointed General Manager of Defence Forces Shop Uganda Limited (DFSUL), Colonel Deus Taremwa, with a critical mission: to bolster the institution and ensure it effectively serves the welfare needs of Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) personnel.
Okiding emphasized the strategic importance of DFSUL as a core welfare function during the handover ceremony at the Land Force Headquarters in Bombo. The outgoing General Manager, Brigadier General Metland Bitumbika, who is set for retirement, was commended for his professionalism and exemplary leadership during his service.
DFSUL, a key UPDF welfare initiative, has grown significantly from a single outlet to 13 branches across the nation. Its expansion aims to improve access to affordable essential goods and services for serving soldiers, veterans, and their families. Plans are underway to establish outlets at all division headquarters and major military units.
Originally established as a duty-free outlet for the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MoDVA) and UPDF personnel, DFSUL offers subsidized products. Taxes on these goods are offset through government support, allowing the shop to provide items at reduced prices. Brig. Gen. Bitumbika highlighted that DFSUL initially focused on supplying affordable construction materials to address the pressing housing needs of soldiers, a challenge that has since seen many personnel become homeowners.
As soldier needs evolved, DFSUL broadened its product range to include everyday consumables and other necessities. The organization has also fostered strong partnerships with private sector suppliers to guarantee a consistent supply of quality goods. Col. Taremwa, in his acceptance remarks, pledged to build upon the foundation laid by his predecessor, focusing on efficiency and improved service delivery.
The ceremony was attended by several high-ranking military officials, underscoring the significance of the DFSUL in the UPDF’s welfare strategy.
Source: Nile Post