General Katumba Wamala to exit UPDF in major retirement exercise

Kampala, August 7, 2026 - Katumba Former Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen. Katumba Wamala is among 1,591 Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) personnel set to retire this month.

The retirement exercise, announced by the Acting Director of Defence Public Information, Col. Chris Magezi, covers personnel across all ranks, from generals to privates.

It includes 19 general officers, 222 senior officers, 205 junior officers and 1,364 militants who will retire from various formations and units across the country. Other high-ranking officers due for retirement include Lt.

According to the UPDF, 222 senior officers, from the rank of Major to Colonel, will officially retire during a ceremony scheduled for August 12 at the Joint Services Headquarters in Mbuya. The date for the ceremonial send-off of the 19 general officers will be announced later to ensure they are honoured with the dignity befitting their service. “The ceremonies will mark another milestone in the force’s tradition of honouring sacrifice and patriotism.

Junior cadres have safeguarded Uganda’s sovereignty, while senior commanders have strengthened Uganda’s role in regional peace and stability. Together, the ceremonies celebrate the courage, discipline and devotion of both categories of personnel,” the statement reads. Ahead of the retirement exercise, the UPDF has been conducting financial literacy training for the outgoing officers. Speaking during a training session at Mbuya Military Headquarters on Thursday, Maj.