Veterans urged to seek early health care at military facilities

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In a bid to improve their well-being and reduce daily health challenges, Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) veterans in the Elgon region have been encouraged to seek health services at military facilities.

The call was made by Mike Mabonga, the commissioner for rehabilitation, psychosocial support, and reintegration at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, during a skilling and equipping workshop held on May 9, 2025, at the Mbale district headquarters in Maluku.

The workshop, organised by the defence ministry through its Directorate of Veteran Affairs, was attended by 213 participants, including military veterans, widows, and their children.

Mabonga also noted that veterans with critical conditions would be referred to the General Military Referral Hospital for specialised care.

He expressed gratitude to the central government for increasing retirement packages for veterans and reinstating many onto the payroll.

He further highlighted the ongoing retirement documentation process taking place at the Non-Commissioned Officers Academy in Jinja.

Mabonga reassured the participants that the ministry remains committed to the resettlement and rehabilitation of veterans, particularly those in vulnerable situations.

He commended the veterans for forming a SACCO, saying such community-based initiatives offer effective avenues for accessing government support.

Mabonga reaffirmed the Directorate’s dedication to ensuring veterans transition smoothly from military to civilian life.

Mariam Mukhaye, the Woman Member of Parliament for Mbale district, commended the ministry for responding to her request to initiate the training.

She described the programme as timely and in line with President Yoweri Museveni’s vision of empowering citizens to achieve socio-economic transformation.

However, the legislator cautioned against poor leadership, forming SACCOS merely to access government funds, avoiding accountability, and lacking clear strategic direction.

“Without addressing these issues, sustainable progress of SACCOS will remain elusive,” Mukhaye said.

George Wopuwa, the resident district commissioner of Mbale, reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting its former servicemen and women.

He urged them to uphold the discipline that characterised their military service, noting that such values are essential for SACCO management and successful reintegration.

“As the country approaches a politically tense period, veterans should remain vigilant, promote civil-military cooperation, and uphold the image of the UPDF,” Wopuwa added.

During the workshop, participants received training in SACCO formation, financial management, and conflict resolution skills aimed at boosting their economic resilience and social integration.