UPDF honours Ghana’s role in shaping its officers
“UPDF and the Ghanaian Forces share a strong history that we cannot take for granted. You have supported us in several areas, including career development and operations,” Maj. Gen. Nabaasa said.
Maj Gen Don Nabaasa addressing students from Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College (GAFCSC) at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs headquaters. (Credit: Ministry of Defence)
Charles Etukuri
Senior Writer @New Vision
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Maj. Gen. Don William Nabaasa, Joint Staff – Policy and Strategy in the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), on Monday, May 5 2025, commended the longstanding ties between Uganda and Ghana, highlighting Ghana’s pivotal role in the professional development of UPDF officers.
“UPDF and the Ghanaian Forces share a strong history that we cannot take for granted. You have supported us in several areas, including career development and operations,” Maj. Gen. Nabaasa said. 
Maj Gen Richard Otto giving his remarks during the GGhana Armed Forces Command and Staff College (GAFCSC) at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs headquarters. (Credit: Ministry of Defence)
Nabaasa, who represented the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, made the remarks while addressing a visiting delegation of 37 students from the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College at the Defence Intelligence and Security Headquarters in Mbuya.
He highlighted the significant impact of Ghana’s military education programmes, noting that numerous senior UPDF commanders, including Gen David Muhoozi, Lt Gen. James Mugira, and Maj. Gen. George Igumba, are alumni of Ghana’s Grade II military courses.
Maj Gen. Nabaasa also recalled Uganda’s peacekeeping deployment to Liberia, praising the Ghanaian forces for their camaraderie and support. “When UPDF was deployed to Liberia in unfamiliar territory, we felt at home due to your hospitality,” he added.
Echoing the same message, Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security, Maj. Gen. Richard Otto assured the delegation of Uganda’s stability and openness. “Uganda is safe and peaceful. We have a wealth of tourist attractions, and you are free to explore and enjoy the beauty of our country,” he said.
Air Commodore Thomas Niifio Okai, expressing appreciation for the warm welcome and meaningful exchanges. (Credit: Ministry of Defence)
The Ghanaian delegation, led by Air Commodore Thomas Niifio Okai, expressed appreciation for the warm welcome and meaningful exchanges. He lauded the UPDF leadership for the insights shared, saying they would greatly benefit the visiting officers’ professional growth.
The event was attended by senior UPDF officers, including Brig. Gen. Godwin Karugaba, Brig. Gen. James Kinalwa, Brig. Gen. Abdul Rugumayo, Brig. Gen. Robert Mugabe, Brig. Gen. Justus Rukundo, Col Chris Magezi, and Col Paddy Ankunda.