By Ronald Atuzarirwe
In a time when Uganda needs a new brand of leadership, the emergence of General Muhoozi Kainerugaba on the scene has ignited hope and inspiration across the nation.
This new era of leadership is not only essential but also a cause for celebration, honoring all those who contributed to the struggle for Uganda’s liberation.
General Muhoozi Kainerugaba stands as a role model for the youth, representing their potential and the promise of a prosperous future, thanks to his exceptional leadership skills and remarkable achievements.
General Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s military career is marked by a series of notable accomplishments and rapid advancement. His journey began in 1999 when he enlisted in the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) and reached a significant milestone by graduating from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in 2000.
Despite facing resistance from various quarters, his undeniable talent and unwavering determination propelled him through the ranks of the UPDF. In 2012, he achieved the prestigious rank of Brigadier General and assumed command of the Special Forces Command (SFC), a role in which he played a pivotal role in maintaining regional peace.
A true advocate for political, social, and economic liberalization, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba continues to champion these principles as the foundation for genuine freedom. His commitment to Uganda is commendable, as he utilizes his revolutionary connections to give back to his country through his dedicated work.
Over his 20 years of military service, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba has compiled an impressive list of achievements. He has completed military training programs at various levels, including the Executive National Security Program in South Africa, the Command and General Staff Course at Fort Leavenworth in Kansas, and an airborne/paratrooper course at the US Army’s Airborne School in Fort Benning, GA.
Beyond his exceptional training, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba has actively participated in numerous combat and counter-insurgency operations, both within and outside Uganda. Notably, he played a crucial role in the conflict in the North and Teso region during the height of the LRA insurgency.
He contributed to the demise of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) in Bundibugyo in 2007 and played a key role in the formation and organization of a commando battalion, which has since evolved into a brigade engaged in combat operations in Somalia and the DRC.
General Muhoozi Kainerugaba has effectively managed a range of command and staff responsibilities, including serving as the Commanding Officer (CO) of the Motorized Infantry Battalion within the Presidential Guard Brigade, Commanding Officer of the Special Forces Group, and Land Component Commander of Operation Lightning Thunder, which significantly weakened Joseph Kony’s Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Central African Republic.
His leadership extended to the fully formed and established elite service of the UPDF, the Special Forces Command (SFC), which encompasses combat and specialized fighting components.
In 2002, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba established a camp at Soroti Flying School in Eastern Uganda. There, he courageously led the fight against the notorious Joseph Kony and his rebels who had entered the Teso Sub Region, causing suffering among the local population.
His involvement in the conflict shifted the course of the battle, resulting in the demise of Brig Tabule, a senior commander of the LRA rebel rank and file. Following the routing of hostile forces by General Muhoozi Kainerugaba and his troops, Joseph Kony withdrew from the Teso Sub-region, bringing relief to the affected communities.
In the years 2013–2014, when a rift between South Sudan’s Vice President, Riek Machar, and the country’s leader, H.E. Salva Kiir, threatened to lead to a genocide, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba and the UPDF intervened. Their timely action prevented a humanitarian catastrophe in South Sudan.
Their intervention was prompted by a desperate appeal to President Museveni when fighting broke out in Juba, putting innocent bystanders at risk.
General Muhoozi Kainerugaba and the UPDF played a commendable role in restoring stability to South Sudan, averting a potential genocide. Their actions underline the commitment to peace and humanitarian values.
Before embarking on the mission to conquer Mogadishu, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba and the UPDF faced a daunting challenge. The capital city of Somalia had become a haven for terrorists. However, their strategic approach, involving tactics like the mouse hole and box formation, allowed them to liberate the city.
As a result, investors are now confident in making investments across Somalia, and the UPDF, alongside sister forces, is actively involved in establishing peace throughout the country.
General Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s expertise transcends military and security-related matters. He played a vital diplomatic role in resolving a prolonged diplomatic dispute between Uganda and Rwanda, facilitating unrestricted trade between the two nations.
His leadership abilities and commitment to the political, social, and economic unification of the East African Community are evident in his diplomatic achievements.
As the Senior Presidential Advisor on Special Operations, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba urged the people of Acholi, particularly in Agago District, to protect their cattle from Karimojong rustlers. This effort is crucial in enhancing economic prosperity and increasing household income.
General Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s dedication to Uganda’s security and development is further highlighted by his contributions to the construction of the Special Forces Command’s hospital, housing units for the SFC, and the SFC headquarters.
In light of General Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s distinguished life and ongoing leadership, as well as his charismatic character, which has garnered support across various social groups, it is no surprise that celebrations and appreciation are widespread across various media platforms.
General Muhoozi Kainerugaba is at the forefront of organizing missions in Uganda, the surrounding region, and Africa, all aimed at strengthening peace in Uganda and across the continent.
To consolidate the achievements of the NRM, foster East African Integration, and secure enduring peace, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba requires the support of all Africans who value peace and development. The time for this transformation is now, not later, and it aligns perfectly with the year 2026.
Known for his affinity with the youth, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba has been instrumental in helping young people achieve their goals. Whether in sports, the arts, or other fields, his encouragement has inspired numerous graduates to enlist. General Muhoozi Kainerugaba has also been pivotal in the professionalization of the UPDF.
The unwavering support of millions of Ugandans for General Muhoozi Kainerugaba stems from their belief in him as the torchbearer of peace, stability, prosperity, and the realization of East African Integration. His dedication and patriotism have not gone unnoticed, and as the year 2026 approaches, the call for General Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s candidacy in the presidential race is growing stronger.
Therefore, Uganda stands at the threshold of a new era, and General Muhoozi Kainerugaba embodies the qualities and vision needed for the nation’s future. His exceptional military career, diplomatic accomplishments, and commitment to peace and development make him a leader of great promise. As Uganda looks ahead to 2026, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba represents the hope for a brighter and more prosperous future for the country.
NOTE: Ronald is a Patriotic Ugandan and can be reached @AtuzarirweR1 on X