In a significant reshuffle within the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), Major General Jack Bakasumba has been promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General, solidifying his position as one of the top-ranking officers in the Ugandan military.
The announcement was made on Monday by the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who also promoted Brigadier General James Kinalwa to Major General.
Lt Gen Bakasumba currently serves as the Chief of Joint Staff of the UPDF, a pivotal position in the military hierarchy responsible for overseeing operations across service branches.
A highly decorated officer, Bakasumba has held several prominent positions throughout his career, including Commandant of the Peace Support Operations Centre, Chief of Joint Staff in the Uganda Police Force, and Chief of Staff of the UPDF Land Forces.
His promotion is being viewed as a recognition of his extensive experience and strategic contributions to both national and regional security.
Military insiders point to Bakasumba’s deep operational knowledge and steady leadership as key assets in shaping UPDF’s readiness in a dynamic security environment.
Also promoted was James Kinalwa, a veteran officer known for his long-standing service within the army.
Now Major General, Kinalwa serves as the head of Joint Staff Human Resource Management, where he has played an instrumental role in shaping the UPDF’s personnel systems, recruitment strategies, and career development structures.
His promotion underscores the value of institutional memory and the importance of continuity in military administration.
The promotions come amid ongoing efforts by CDF Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba to streamline UPDF command and reinforce merit-based advancement.
Since assuming the leadership of the armed forces, Gen Muhoozi has emphasized professionalism, loyalty, and modernization as guiding principles for the UPDF.
The Uganda People’s Defence Forces continue to play a vital role in regional peacekeeping operations and national security efforts. With these new promotions, the force is expected to strengthen its command architecture and enhance operational effectiveness across various theatres of deployment.
