The Deputy Chief of Defence Forces and Inspector General of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), Lt Gen Sam Okiding, has encouraged military officers to mentor those who may succeed them in order to guarantee continuity, professionalism and the steady growth of the institution.
He made the appeal at the handover and takeover ceremony for the Commander of the Reserve Force held in Kampala.
During the event, outgoing commander Lt Gen Charles Otema Awany, who is set to retire, transferred command to Maj Gen Joseph Ssemwanga.
“It is important to transit and leave able leaders behind because this will help the Army grow and remain stronger than ever,” Lt Gen Okiding said.
He paid tribute to Lt Gen Otema for his 47 years of service to the nation, describing the officer’s career as a clear example of sacrifice and commitment.
Okiding specifically highlighted Otema’s role in restoring peace to northern Uganda during operations against the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA), among them Operation Iron Fist and Operation Lightning Thunder.
He urged the newly appointed commander to “hit the ground running” and to consolidate the progress already achieved by his predecessor, observing that the Reserve Force is now better equipped to carry out its duties than when it was first established.
Reflecting on his own 47 years in uniform, Lt Gen Otema noted that true leadership includes the duty of equipping the next generation to advance the institution.
“Leadership is about service, responsibility and preparing the next generation to take the institution forward,” he said, underscoring the need for unity and professional standards.
Maj Gen Ssemwanga undertook to build upon the successes of the previous commander and to collaborate closely with officers, soldiers and other partners in order to reinforce the Reserve Force.
He also promised to deepen connections between reservists and initiatives that support national development.Among those present at the ceremony were Brig Gen Mwanjje Ssekiranda, Chief of Staff of the Reserve Force; Brig Gen Kangyenyi, Deputy Inspector General of the UPDF; and various commanders from the Reserve Force, together with other senior officers.
