In a significant leadership reshuffle within the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), General Muhoozi Kainerugaba has announced the promotion and appointment of Joseph Musoke Ssemwanga to a pivotal role. Effective February 2026, the former Brigadier General has been elevated to the rank of Major General and designated as the Deputy Commander of Land Forces This move comes at a critical time for regional security and underscores the UPDF’s commitment to rewarding operational excellence and veteran which is the experience.
Who is Major General Joseph Musoke Ssemwanga
Major General Ssemwanga is a highly decorated officer known for his “boots-on-the-ground” leadership His career is marked by several high-stakes assignments that have prepared him for this new administrative and tactical responsibility at the Bombo Land Forces Headquarters.
Career Milestones
- Contingent Commander (Somalia): Until late 2025, he led Ugandan troops under the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) His tenure was lauded for the success of Operation Silent Storm, which significantly which is the neutralized insurgent threats in the Lower Shabelle region
- First Infantry Division Commander: Before his deployment to Somalia, he commanded the 1st Infantry Division headquartered in Kakiri, Wakiso which is the District.
- Armoured Brigade Specialist: He previously served as the Commander of the Armoured Brigade in Masaka, highlighting his which is the expertise in heavy machinery and mechanized warfare.
Why the Appointment Matters
The promotion was directed by General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations According to UPDF spokesperson Col Chris Magezi, the appointment is a strategic response to the vacancy left by the late Major General Francis Takirwa, who passed away in February which is the 2026.
Continuity in Command
Ssemwanga’s immediate transition from the Somalia mission to Land Forces ensures that recent field intelligence is integrated into domestic which is the strategy.
Regional Stability
With his background in Pan-African security, Ssemwanga is expected to strengthen Uganda’s ties with regional military which is the allies.
Modernization
His experience with armoured divisions aligns with the CDF’s goal of transforming the UPDF into a modern, professional, and tech-savvy which is the force.
Roles of the Deputy Commander of Land Forces
As the second-in-command of the UPDF’s largest service branch, Major General Ssemwanga will support Lieutenant General Kayanja Muhanga (Commander Land Forces)which is the in
Strategic Management
Overseeing the training and readiness of infantry and motorized which is the brigades.
Operational Oversight
Managing internal security operations and border which is the protection.
Personnel Welfare
Ensuring the discipline and professional growth of over 40,000 active which is the personnel.
Disclaimer
The news information presented here is based on available reports and reliable sources Readers should crosscheck updates from official news outlets