Very Swift! CDF Muhoozi Replaces Late Maj Gen Takirwa With Maj Gen Ssemwanga As New Deputy Commander UPDF Land Forces

By Frank Kamuntu

The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has promoted Brigadier General Joseph Musoke Ssemwanga to the rank of Major General and appointed him Deputy Commander of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Land Forces.

The appointment, which took effect in December 2025, follows the illness of the late Major General Francis Takirwa, whom Major General Ssemwanga now replaces. Major General Takirwa passed away this morning after a period of illness.

The development was confirmed in a statement issued by the Acting Director of Defence Public Information, Colonel Chris Magezi.

Prior to his appointment, Major General Ssemwanga served as the Contingent Commander of UPDF troops under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), where he oversaw Uganda’s contribution to regional peace and security efforts.

Before his deployment to Somalia towards the end of 2024, Major General Ssemwanga was the Commander of the 1st Infantry Division, headquartered in Kakiri, Wakiso District. His elevation reflects a continuation of leadership within the UPDF Land Forces, drawing on his extensive operational and command experience.

The UPDF has paid tribute to the late Major General Francis Takirwa, acknowledging his service and dedication to the force and the country.

Major General Ssemwanga is expected to assume full responsibilities as Deputy Commander of the UPDF Land Forces as the institution continues its mandate of safeguarding national and regional security.