Minister Kiryowa Kiwanuka Commends Directorate Of Veteran Affairs For Improving Veterans’ Welfare
The Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Hon. Kiryowa Iwanuka, has commended the Directorate of Veteran Affairs for its efforts in improving the welfare of Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) veterans, noting that the progress made has significantly enhanced their resettlement and reintegration into civilian life.
The minister made the remarks during a working visit to the Directorate of Veteran Affairs Headquarters at Postel Building in Kampala.
During his engagement with the Minister of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs (Veteran Affairs), Hon. Huda Oleru Abason, and the directorate staff, Hon. Kiryowa commended the leadership of the directorate for implementing programmes that have positively impacted veterans and their families.
He emphasised the need for timely payment of veterans’ benefits and the swift resolution of welfare-related concerns to facilitate their smooth resettlement within communities.
Hon. Kiryowa further called on the directorate to maintain strong ties between the UPDF and its veterans, describing veterans as ambassadors of the institution within the communities where they live.
“We must maintain the symbolic relationship between the UPDF and our veterans because that is where they come from. They are our image in the community, and if they are left miserable, it could have long-term implications for future generations who aspire to serve in the armed forces,” said Hon. Kiryowa.
Hon. Kiryowa emphasised accountability and the prudent use of resources, calling for value for money in all activities undertaken by the directorate.
On capacity-building initiatives, especially at the Defence Forces Rehabilitation and Vocational Centre, the minister advised the directorate to make greater use of existing UPDF professionals in training programmes. He observed that UPDF personnel have a better understanding of veterans’ backgrounds and challenges, making them well suited to support rehabilitation efforts.
The Minister of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs, Hon. Huda Oleru Abason, thanked Hon. Kiryowa for the visit and pledged to intensify efforts aimed at improving the welfare of veterans.
Hon. Huda applauded the staff of the Directorate of Veteran Affairs for their dedication, over the past five years which has seen a significant reduction in the pension backlog, improved veterans’ welfare, and ensured that sick veterans receive the necessary support and care.
She pledged to continue advocating for veterans and to leave no stone unturned in addressing their concerns.
Among those present were the Director of Veteran Affairs, Brig Gen (Rtd) Emmanuel Musinguzi; the Chief of Staff – Reserve Force, Brig Gen Mwanjje Ssekiranda; the Deputy Director Pension, Gratuity and Compensation, Lt Col Onesmus Amanya; the Commissioner Rehabilitation, Psychosocial Support and Resettlement, Mr Mike Wambi Mabonga; the Assistant Commissioner Rehabilitation, Psychosocial Support and Resettlement , Mr Arthur Kamya; and other staff officers from the directorate.
Reserve Force Logistics Director Hands Over Office
In a related development, the Reserve Force Service conducted a handover ceremony for the office of Director Logistics. During the ceremony, Col David Edimu handed over responsibilities to Lt Col Benon Katariswerwa
The event was presided over by the Chief of Staff Reserve Force, Brig Gen Mwanjje Ssekiranda, and was witnessed by directors and staff officers from across the Reserve Force Service.
