The Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has paid tribute to the late Maj Gen James Ssebaggala, describing him as a patriotic and selfless officer who dedicated his life to the defence of Uganda throughout his military career.
The tribute was delivered on Gen Muhoozi’s behalf by the Camp Commandant of the Joint Headquarters Brigade Group, Maj Gen Dr Lucky Kidega during the burial ceremony of the late Ssebaggala which took place yesterday in Lule, Semuko, Nakaseke District.
Retired Maj Gen Ssebaggala, who held the registration number RO/00803, passed away on July 6th 2025, in Kampala and was laid to rest with full military honours.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of a senior officer whose long service and unwavering dedication will be remembered for his patriotism, professionalism, experience, and commitment,” the Chief of Defence Forcess message was read in part.
Gen Muhoozi, who serves as the Special Presidential Advisor on Special Operations, praised the late Maj Gen Ssebaggala for mentoring and training many officers and men currently serving or retired from the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF).
Maj Gen Ssebaggala began his military career in 1963, serving first in the Uganda Army and later in the UPDF and over the years, he held several key positions including Commander, Administrator, Chief of Personnel and Administration, Trainer and Commandant at various academies and training institutions.
After joining the aarny, the late Ssebaggala rose steadily through the ranks, attaining the rank of Major General before retiring from active service on July 13th 2018.
While speaking on behalf of the family, his son Col Charles Ssebaggala described him as a mentor, servant, and friend to many from all walks of life, and remembered him as a firm but fair disciplinarian both at home and in service.
He expressed the family’s appreciation to the President and Commander-in-Chief for the support extended to them, and thanked the Chief of Defence Forces for facilitating medical care during his father’s illness and also also acknowledged the support of the Joint Staff – Human Resource Management Maj Gen James Kinalwa,
The burial was attended by several serving and retired generals and senior officers, including Gen Rtd Ivan Koreta, Maj Gen Steven Mugerwa (Commander 1st Infantry Division Maj Gen Steven Mugerwa, the Deputy Commander Air Force Maj Gen David Isimbwa, Maj Gen George Igumba, the Director of Citizenship and Immigration Control Maj Gen Apollo Kasiita Gowa, Maj Gen Sam Kiwanuka, Maj Gen Rtd Steven Kashaka and Chief of Staff – Reserve Force Brig Mwanje Ssekiranda among many others.
