By Our Reporter
The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has undergone a significant leadership reshuffle with new appointments to two of the country’s most prestigious military training institutions. The changes were announced today by the Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, as part of a broader effort to strengthen strategic leadership and training within the armed forces.
In a statement released by the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Brigadier General Alex Opolot Olupot has been appointed as the new Commandant of the National Defence College Uganda (NDC-U), based in Jinja. He replaces Major General Francis Okello, the founding commandant of the institution, who is slated to retire later this year after more than four decades of military service.
Brig. Gen. Olupot brings to the role a wealth of operational and academic experience, having most recently served as Joint Staff for Training and Doctrine. In that capacity, he played a critical role in shaping the UPDF’s training programs and aligning them with modern warfare and regional security demands. His background is considered particularly well-suited for the National Defence College, which focuses on strategic-level education for senior military officers and selected civilian leaders.
At the same time, Brigadier General Micheal Kabango has been appointed the new Commandant of the Senior Command and Staff College (SCSC) in Kimaka, Jinja. Brig. Gen. Kabango has been serving as Chief of Staff – Land Forces, a role that placed him at the heart of operational command within the UPDF. He will succeed Major General George Igumba, who is also set to retire this year after a distinguished military career spanning more than 40 years.
Both outgoing generals—Maj. Gen. Okello and Maj. Gen. Igumba—are lauded for their immense contributions to the professionalization of the UPDF and the development of its officer corps. Their leadership helped position NDC-U and SCSC as premier institutions for military strategy, leadership, and command training in the region.
“The UPDF salutes the service and commitment of Major Generals Okello and Igumba. Their legacy will continue to inspire the next generation of commanders,” the Ministry said in an official communiqué. “We also congratulate Brigadier Generals Olupot and Kabango on their new appointments and are confident in their ability to uphold and advance the standards of excellence at these institutions.”
Military analysts and defense stakeholders have welcomed the appointments, noting that both incoming leaders have demonstrated strong operational command and a commitment to continuous professional development. Their combined experience is expected to enhance the strategic capacity of the UPDF at a time when regional security dynamics are increasingly complex and unpredictable.
The National Defence College Uganda (NDC-U) and the Senior Command and Staff College (SCSC) play critical roles in grooming senior officers for high-level responsibilities in both domestic and multinational operations. The colleges are also integral to Uganda’s defense diplomacy, hosting officers from other African countries and strengthening regional cooperation.
As the UPDF continues to modernize its structures and expand its role in regional peacekeeping and stability operations, the appointments reflect a broader vision of leadership renewal and strategic readiness.
With the retirement of two veteran commanders and the arrival of two new leaders, the UPDF signals both respect for its history and a readiness to meet the future with confidence and clarity of purpose.
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