In a ceremony held on Tuesday afternoon to honor the late Gen Aronda Nyakairima, President Yoweri Museveni paid tribute to the former Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) for his significant contributions to the professionalization of the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF). Gen Aronda, who served as CDF from 2003 to 2013, was praised for his discipline, ideology, and management skills, which have left a lasting influence on the current military leadership.
Aronda’s Role in Professionalizing the UPDF
President Museveni emphasized that Gen Aronda’s leadership helped shape the UPDF into a professional force, noting that his legacy is crucial for future generations of soldiers. “He was outstanding in discipline, ideology, and management skills,” the President remarked, highlighting the importance of commemorating his contributions. Museveni further urged the UPDF to emulate Aronda’s leadership by focusing on infrastructural development, improving soldier welfare, and mastering all aspects of warfare.
The President also broadened the scope of Gen Aronda’s legacy, linking his military service to broader African liberation struggles. Museveni reflected on how the National Resistance Army (NRA), to which Aronda belonged, was not solely a military entity but also a political movement aimed at addressing the political issues of identity and gender chauvinism in Africa. He underscored that Aronda, as a university graduate, played a key role in managing intelligence and serving as a political commissar during critical times in Uganda’s history.
Honoring Aronda’s Military Legacy and Sacrifices
At the event, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the current Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and President Museveni’s son, echoed the President’s sentiments by celebrating Aronda’s selfless service. He noted that Aronda’s leadership during pivotal moments in Uganda’s military history, such as the defeat of insurgencies including the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) and cattle rustlers in Karamoja, had a lasting impact on national security.
“His leadership during critical moments impacted the outcomes of conflicts and national security,” said Gen Muhoozi. He also stressed that Aronda’s humility, despite his power and responsibilities, was a model for future leaders. “By honoring him, we acknowledge the personal sacrifices he made, as did many other officers.”
Gen Muhoozi, along with his wife Charlotte, paid personal homage to Gen Aronda, pointing out that his contributions continue to inspire the UPDF and the nation.
Aronda’s Economic Contributions and Broader Impact
President Museveni praised Aronda for establishing the Wazalendo Savings and Credit Cooperative Society, which has improved the welfare of UPDF soldiers by providing them access to loans. This initiative was one of the many ways Aronda contributed to improving the quality of life for military personnel, ensuring they had financial support beyond their service.
The President also used the occasion to commend Gen Muhoozi’s efforts in combating corruption, particularly during his tenure as Commander of Land Forces. Museveni highlighted how Muhoozi redirected funds that had previously been mismanaged to build barracks facilities in Bombo, a move that reinforced his leadership against misuse of resources.
Reflections from Senior Military and Government Officials
Several senior military officers and government officials reflected on Gen Aronda’s enduring legacy through speeches and a documentary aired during the event. Gen Katumba Wamala, the Minister of Works and Transport, recalled Aronda’s dedication to every task he was assigned, remarking, “When given a task, he would leave no stone unturned. Youth can learn from him.”
Gen David Muhoozi, the State Minister for Internal Affairs, acknowledged Aronda’s role in establishing the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA), a foundation that continues to impact Uganda’s administrative functions today.
Other speakers, including Lt Gen Sam Kavuma, Maj Gen Henry Masiko, and Lt Gen James Mugira, shared personal anecdotes about Aronda’s influence on their careers, emphasizing the critical role he played in shaping the current military leadership.
A Broader Legacy Beyond the UPDF
Ramathan Ggoobi, Secretary to the Treasury, echoed the sentiments of many when he referred to Gen Aronda as the “godfather of the army.” His leadership and mentorship continue to resonate within Uganda’s military and civilian spheres, ensuring that his contributions to national security and development will not be forgotten.
The memorial event, which included lectures and the inaugural Kampala Defence and Security Expo, was attended by senior UPDF officers, security representatives, ministers, Members of Parliament, senior civil servants, and members of Gen Aronda’s family. It served not only as a platform to honor Gen Aronda’s legacy but also to inspire future generations to uphold the values of discipline, dedication, and selfless service to the nation.