Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba Appoints New Senior UPDF Commanders

The Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has initiated a notable reshuffling of senior commanders within the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF). These changes, which have taken immediate effect, touch upon leadership roles in the Land Forces, Reserve Forces, and two infantry divisions.

The reshuffle occurs as the UPDF prepares for the upcoming retirement of Lt. Gen. Charles Otema Awany, the current commander of the Reserve Forces, who is scheduled to retire next week.

Major General Joseph Ssemwanga, formerly the Deputy Commander of the Land Forces, has been appointed as the new General Officer Commanding the Reserve Forces, succeeding Lt. Gen. Otema. His previous role as Deputy Commander of the Land Forces will be filled by Major General Felix Busizoori.

Major General Busizoori was previously in command of the 4th Infantry Division. He now takes over as the Deputy Commander of the Land Forces, replacing Maj. Gen. Ssemwanga. Meanwhile, Major General Wilberforce Sserunkuma, who led the 3rd Infantry Division, has been reassigned to command the 4th Infantry Division.

Brigadier General Micheal Hyeroba, previously serving as the Deputy Commander of the 1st Infantry Division, has been promoted to commander of the 3rd Infantry Division. These appointments signal a strategic adjustment in UPDF’s senior command structure.