The retiring 148 Army officers advised to comply with the authorities of their communities.

KAMPALA-UGANDA: Yet to retire senior Army officers have been advised to respect and comply with the authority of their community leaders, as transitioning from command positions can be challenging. 

This was revealed by the Commandant of Jinja Cantonment Brig Gen Emmanuel Kanyesigye, during the sensitisation and documentation exercise for 148 senior officers, ranging from Colonels to Majors, in preparation for their retirement.

At the event held at the Non-Commissioned Officers Academy in Jinja Brig Gen Emmanuel, commended the officers for their selfless service to the UPDF, Uganda, and Africa, highlighted that their efforts have enabled the nation to enjoy peace and stability.

He encouraged them to leverage their leadership skills to complement existing leadership and drive progress in their communities, rather than conflicting with village authorities.

Brig Gen Kanyesigye further urged the retirees to take pride in their achievement and utilise this phase of life to engage in socially and economically transformative activities, such as agriculture. 

“I want to assure you that when you engage in income generating activities, you will be able to multiply your gratuity and secure a sustainable financial future, ensuring full reintegration into your communities and prudent management of your hard-earned benefits” said Brig Gen Emmanuel Kanyesigye.

The Deputy Chief of Pension, Gratuity, and Compensation Col Deborah Nayebare, encouraged the retirees to see their retirement positively, as an opportunity to explore aspects of life previously neglected during their dedicated service. 

“My assurance to you is that your pension remunerations are secure and tax-free, courtesy of the government and it should be seen as a positive opportunity to explore aspects of life previously neglected during your dedicated service” said Col Deborah Nayebare.

Col Nayebare further advised the retirees to manage their finances wisely by considering key investment principles, including where to invest, how to invest, what to invest, and the level of risk associated with their retirement.

In attendance were staff from the Pension Directorate and Mr. William Enyimu, Principal Human Resource Officer at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs.