KAMPALA, Uganda — Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba has promoted Brig Gen Joseph Musoke Ssemwanga to the rank of major general and appointed him deputy commander of the Uganda Peoples Defence Forces land forces.
The appointment follows the death of Maj Gen Francis Takirwa earlier in the day, who had been serving in the same role before falling ill late last year.
Col. Chris Magezi, the acting director of defence public information, said Maj. Gen. Ssemwanga had already been acting in the position since December 2025 due to Takirwa’s illness. His confirmation now formalises the leadership transition within the land forces command.
Maj. Gen. Takirwa passed away earlier Saturday after a period of sickness. The army described his death as a major loss to the UPDF, noting his long service and contribution to land forces operations.
Before his new appointment, Maj. Gen. Ssemwanga served as contingent commander of UPDF troops under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia. He led Ugandan forces involved in counter insurgency and stabilization operations during a critical phase of the mission.
Prior to his deployment to Somalia in late 2024, Ssemwanga was commander of the 1st Infantry Division based in Kakiri, Wakiso District. The division is one of the UPDF’s key combat formations, responsible for both national defense and internal security operations.
His promotion reflects confidence in his operational experience and command record, particularly in regional missions and frontline leadership.
The UPDF land forces form the backbone of Uganda’s military operations, handling ground combat, border security and internal deployments. The deputy commander supports the land forces commander in planning, operations and troop welfare.
The army has not yet announced funeral arrangements for the late Maj Gen Takirwa.
