The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces – Air Force (UPDF) has officially commissioned its first dedicated fuel station, a significant step in enhancing internal fuel supply systems and improving logistical self-reliance.
The facility, located at the Air Force Headquarters in Entebbe, was commissioned today June 2025, by the Commander of the UPDF Air Force, Lt Gen Charles Okidi who said that it was a pleasure and honour to witness and commission the first-ever fuel station for the Air Force and praised the team behind the project for transforming the vision into reality.
Lt Gen Okidi described the development as a remarkable achievement and urged the station’s managers to uphold strict operational standards and highlighted the vital link between fuel reliability and air operations.
Lt Gen Okidi called for the installation of a fuel servicing machine to reduce the high costs currently incurred through outsourcing.
While speaking at the same event, the Chief of Staff –Air Force Brig Gen David Gonyi, noted that the initiative responds to a presidential directive for UPDF units to establish in-house fuel stations and explained that it aims to eliminate the need for military vehicles to refuel at private outlets, which undermines both cost-efficiency and the military’s public image.
Brig Gen Gonyi remarked that this was a great step forward in helping the UPDF Airforce save both money and public image and expressing gratitude to the General Headquarters for prioritising infrastructure development within the Air Force.
The Director of Engineering, Col Justus Nsereko disclosed that twelve fuel stations have already been completed and certified across various units, with more currently under construction countrywide.
The ceremony was attended by the Chief of Joint Staff and Chairman Supervisory Committee, Maj Gen Jack Bakasumba, the Joint Staff – Policy and Strategy Maj Gen Don Nabasa and Brig Gen Godwin Karugaba who is the Joint Staff – Logistics among others.
