The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has officially launched the construction of a UGX 96 billion state-of-the-art joint headquarters for the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MoDVA) and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) at Mbuya.

During the ground-breaking ceremony held on Monday, August 26, 2024, Gen Kainerugaba highlighted the strategic significance of the new facility.

“It is of strategic importance that the MoDVA headquarters are accommodated in a modern and comfortable setting. This directly contributes to the operational efficiency, coordination, and capabilities of the UPDF. Our new headquarters will incorporate the latest technology and infrastructure to support a modern defence strategy,” Gen Kainerugaba said.

He expressed his confidence in the UPDF leadership’s commitment to enhancing national defence and security, asserting that the new headquarters would symbolize the nation’s strength and resilience.

Gen Kainerugaba also conveyed his gratitude to the Ugandan government, particularly President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, for their support in making this project a reality.

“The new headquarters would improve decision-making processes and foster better coordination among the Joint Staff and Services, ultimately strengthening national security,” he added.

The CDF expressed hope that the construction, initially projected to take three years, could be completed in two years.

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Maj Gen Jack Bakasumba, the Chief of Joint Staff, emphasized the importance of the project, adding that it represents a significant step towards the professionalization of the UPDF, guided by the president’s vision.

“For long, the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs/UPDF has not had decent headquarters, and now the reality of having one is unfolding before us,” Maj Gen Bakasumba remarked.

He acknowledged Gen Kainerugaba for his leadership and unwavering support, noting that this initiative aligns with strategic priorities for infrastructural development within the UPDF and the ministry.

Edith Butuuro, the Undersecretary of Finance and Administration at the ministry, provided details about the project’s financial aspects, announcing an estimated cost of around UGX 94 billion with an initial allocation of around UGX 20 billion.

She praised General Kainerugaba for his proactive approach in securing resources and prioritizing the construction of the headquarters, committing to mobilizing additional funds to ensure timely completion.

The ceremony was attended by high-ranking military officials, including the Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, Lt Gen Sam Okiding; the Commander Air Force, Lt Gen Charles Okiding; and the Commander Special Forces Command, Maj Gen BD Mugisha, along with other service chiefs, senior officers, and officials from the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs.