President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni honoured the late Gen. Aronda Nyakairima, recognising his exceptional discipline, organisational skills, and dedication.
He made the remarks during a keynote address at the inaugural 2024 Kampala Defence and Security Expo, held at Munyonyo Commonwealth Resort as part of the Gen. Aronda Nyakairima Memorial Lecture.
The expo, which started today, September 10th, and will end on September 12th, is being held under the theme “Celebrating the Life of Hon. Gen. Aronda Nyakairima: A Paragon of Revolutionary, Sacrifice, Pan-Africanism, Patriotism, Courage, and an Accomplished Freedom Fighter.”
President Museveni praised Gen. Aronda for his role in the early resistance movement, saying that individuals like him, educated and emerging from oppressed backgrounds, were crucial to the success of the struggle.
It should be remembered that Gen. Aronda Nyakairima, who died on 12th September 2015 on a flight from South Korea to Uganda, served as Chief of Defence Forces in 2003 to 2013, and by the time of his death, he was the Minister of Internal Affairs.
He was also a bush war hero who joined the NRA liberation struggle in 1982 after graduating from Makerere University.
The President noted that Gen. Aronda and his colleagues’ education and proficiency in English quickly made them invaluable assets in the intelligence and political sections of the army.
He also acknowledged the contributions of other early combatants, including David Tinyefuuza, Magara, Elly Tumwine, Tumukunde Henry, and Sande Mukulu, who took on combat roles at the onset of the fight.
President Museveni emphasised that, despite the challenges posed by the loss of many historical combat commanders to natural causes, the UPDF/NRA/Fronasa managed to sustain its mission of liberating Uganda.
However, President Museveni pointed out ongoing issues, such as corruption and insufficient training, that have impacted the army.
He cited theft involving army fuel, rations, pension money, allowances, and salaries, as well as corruption in personnel selection for external missions such as those in Somalia. He said the tragic incident where 57 soldiers were lost in Somalia was attributed to such corruption.
Despite these challenges, President Museveni affirmed that the majority of the army remains dedicated and clean, with valuable information about misconduct often coming from within the ranks.
He commended the current Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen. Muhoozi Kaneirugaba, for addressing the issue of misuse of resources by reallocating funds to build barracks and improve soldiers’ welfare.
Reflecting on Gen. Aronda’s legacy, President Museveni urged the current and future commanders to adhere to the NRA’s collective welfare principles.
He emphasised the importance of continuing initiatives started by Gen. Aronda, such as the Wazalendo program, which has significantly benefitted soldiers.
The President called for improvements in barracks conditions, educational facilities for soldiers’ children, and health units to further strengthen the UPDF.
Gen. Muhooza Keinerugaba, the Chief of Defence Forces of the UPDF, also paid tribute to Gen. Aronda, honouring his profound impact on Uganda’s stability and security.
“Today, we gather to remember Gen. Aronda, our longest-serving officer and former Minister of Internal Affairs,” Gen. Keinerugaba said.
He praised Gen. Aronda’s resilience and dedication, particularly highlighting his role when UPDF was deployed in Somalia in 2007 under the African Union.
“His efforts in Somalia showcased his exceptional capability and commitment,” Gen. Keinerugaba added.
As Minister of Internal Affairs, Lt. Gen. Aronda was instrumental in driving key reforms, including the national identity card project and the revitalisation of the Department of Immigration.
“These reforms significantly enhanced Uganda’s security and governance, reinforcing our national defence and civil administration,” Gen. Keinerugaba noted.
He also emphasised that honouring Gen. Aronda is about more than remembering his contributions, saying that it reflects a continued dedication to national security, service, and peace.
“His leadership and reforms have left a lasting impact on both our defence forces and civil administration, exemplifying selfless service to the country,” he added.
Gen. Keinerugaba further highlighted Gen. Aronda’s crucial role in the defeat of the Lord’s Resistance Army and his leadership in regional peace efforts, including the pioneering deployment to Somalia in 2007.
“His actions proved him to be a stabilising force in East Africa,” he said.
“His story is a testament to courage, dedication, and commitment, inspiring future leaders both in the military and civilian sectors.”
He also praised the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs for organising the event and extended his best wishes for fruitful discussions.
“By celebrating such heroes, we reaffirm our commitment to honouring their sacrifices and ensuring their legacies endure,” Gen. Keinerugaba concluded.
The Minister of State for Defence in charge of Veteran Affairs, Hon. Huda Oleru Abason, emphasised the critical importance of preserving the legacies of national heroes as a means of instilling national values and fostering a culture of selfless service.
“Honouring our fallen heroes is not just about remembering their sacrifices; it’s about cultivating a culture of gratitude and inspiring future generations to appreciate the value of dedicated service to our country,” she remarked.
She also noted that Gen. Aronda is celebrated for his significant role in Uganda’s security, political, social, and economic development.
Hon. Huda noted that his leadership and dedication to the integration of the East African Community left an enduring legacy.
“This memorial event is dedicated to reflecting on his achievements and the values he embodied.”
The Minister said that this commemoration will feature lectures and discussions led by eminent personalities from within and outside the UPDF, starting with a keynote address by the President.
“These activities aim to lay the foundation for exemplary leadership and inspire both military and civilian officers in their service to the nation,” she noted.
In attendance were Ms. Rosette Byengoma, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs; Lt. Gen. Sam Okiding, the Deputy Chief of Defence Forces; Dr. Johnson Byabashaija, the Commissioner General of Prisons; service commanders; retired generals; service chiefs of staff; and the family of the late Gen. Aronda.
