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Minister Ssempijja has emphasized UPDF junior officers’ welfare, announcing a minimum monthly salary of sh1m. Despite COVID-19 delays, plans for salary adjustments remain. Ssempijja highlighted Uganda’s role in regional stability, criticized cultural impositions, and addressed retirement packages.

The Minister of Defence, Vincent Ssempijja, emphasized that the welfare of Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) junior officers is a top priority for the Ministry. Addressing the UPDF Armoured Brigade’s year-end celebration in Masaka City, Ssempijja, as the chief guest, announced that the lowest-ranking cadres will receive a minimum monthly salary of sh1m. Despite the delay caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, he assured that salary adjustments for junior officers remain on the agenda.

The ceremony, attended by civilians, religious leaders, and politicians, included opposition leaders who joined UPDF officers and their families in festivities. Ssempijja expressed regret for the pandemic’s impact on plans but highlighted the forthcoming improvements, generating enthusiasm among soldiers and their spouses.

The minister underscored that salary adjustments aim to motivate UPDF officers and families in safeguarding the nation and neighboring countries effectively. He acknowledged the security provided at border points, emphasizing Uganda’s positive influence in promoting stability in neighboring countries.

Ssempijja outlined Uganda’s commitment to regional stability, criticizing cultural impositions by superpower nations. He lauded President Museveni’s stance against homosexuality, recognizing the challenges associated with it. Additionally, he highlighted retirement packages designed to ensure the happiness and financial well-being of retiring soldiers.

Brig. Deus Sande, the UPDF Armoured Brigade commander, urged civilians to be vigilant against threats to national security. He emphasized the army’s pro-people approach but warned that those endangering national security would face consequences.

Looking ahead to 2026, Presidency Minister Milly Babirye Babalanda encouraged support for President Museveni’s candidacy. Eng. Joseph Ssewava appealed for automatic returns of prominent leaders, like Ssempijja, to Parliament without the need for campaigns. The Buganda Kingdom representative, Pokino Jude Muleke, urged security officers to maintain discipline.

UPDF spouses’ leader, Juliet Kabasekye, expressed gratitude to President Museveni for a special support fund, enabling access to low-interest loans. The former Masaka woman MP, Babirye Kabanda (DP), pledged bursaries for children of UPDF officers excelling in academics at primary and secondary levels.