Major General Don Nabasa officially transferred leadership of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) 3 Infantry Division to Brigadier General Wilberforce Sserunkuma.
The event, which acknowledged the joint security forces’ role in promoting peace in Karamoja and the Greater Eastern Uganda region, marked the conclusion of Maj Gen Nabasa’s service in this position. He has now been appointed to the role of Joint Staff Policy and Strategy.
The handover ceremony, presided over by Lt Gen Muhanga Kayanja, Commander of the Land Forces, also introduced Colonel Allan Kyangungu, former head of the 407 Brigade, as the new Deputy Commander of the 3 Infantry Division.
Hon Dr Peter Lokeris, Minister for Karamoja Affairs, conveyed his gratitude to the President for providing clear directives to security forces, which have been instrumental in restoring peace to Karamoja and surrounding regions.
Lt Gen Muhanga Kayanja emphasized the need for continued collaboration and cross-border coordination to protect the gains made. “I deeply appreciate the local leadership for their cooperation with the forces, reflecting the UPDF’s identity as a people-centered army,” he stated. He also commended the professionalism of the troops, noting the absence of misconduct complaints.
Members of the Karamoja Parliamentary Group (KPG), led by Hon Remigio Achia, praised Maj Gen Nabasa for his leadership in combating crime and advancing regional disarmament. They urged the incoming commanders to sustain these achievements, particularly in maintaining disarmament efforts, addressing emerging security threats, and fostering strong relationships with local communities. The MPs further advocated for mandatory, free, and boarding education as a long-term solution to transform societal attitudes and curb youth criminality.
Maj Gen Nabasa, reflecting on his tenure, highlighted that Karamoja had achieved an 80% disarmament rate, attributing this success to the collaboration between local authorities and security forces. He stressed the importance of maintaining momentum during the consolidation phase and expressed his gratitude to the President and UPDF leadership for entrusting him with the role.
District leaders from Karamoja and Teso, such as George Owanyi of Nakapiripirit and Peter Pex of Soroti City, expressed confidence in the incoming leadership, while Hon Filex Lochale, LC V Chairperson for Karenga District, called for continued joint efforts to sustain the region’s progress.
Brig Gen Sserunkuma and Col Kyangungu pledged to build on the firm foundation laid by their predecessors, focusing on creating an environment conducive to socio-economic development in the region.
The event, which brought together regional leaders including Members of Parliament, RDCs/RCCs, LC V chairpersons, security officials, mayors, religious figures, civil society organization (CSO) representatives, and Karacuna mobilizers, concluded with a shared commitment from all stakeholders to uphold peace and stability in the region.
