Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has appointed Brig Gen Asaph Mweteise Nyakikuru as the acting Commander of the Special Forces Command (SFC).
The appointment was announced on Monday, August 3, 2026, with Brig Gen Nyakikuru also receiving an acting promotion to the rank of Major General. The changes took immediate effect.
Acting Maj Gen Nyakikuru replaces Maj Gen David Mugisha, who has been serving as the commander of the elite SFC. According to the UPDF, Maj Gen Mugisha will soon leave for the National Defence College (NDC) course abroad as part of his continued professional military development.
The UPDF praised Maj Gen Mugisha for his service and leadership during his time commanding the Special Forces Command, describing his tour of duty as outstanding.
“The UPDF thanks Major General David Mugisha for the outstanding tour of duty as Commander SFC and wishes him good luck in his strategic security studies,” the statement said.
The army also congratulated Acting Maj Gen Nyakikuru upon his appointment and promotion, wishing him success as he takes on the responsibility of leading one of the UPDF’s key specialised units.
The Special Forces Command is responsible for protecting strategic national installations, conducting specialised military operations and providing security support in critical areas.
The leadership transition comes as part of the UPDF’s routine changes aimed at strengthening command structures, enhancing professional growth among officers and preparing senior military personnel for strategic responsibilities.
Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who also serves as Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations, has in recent months overseen several changes within the military leadership structure as the UPDF continues to focus on discipline, modernisation and operational readiness.
