Uganda’s Deputy Commander of Land Forces, Maj. Gen. Francis Takirwa, has died, marking the end of a long and dedicated military career. Reports indicate that the senior officer had been ill for some time before his passing. His death has brought sadness to the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and to many Ugandans who knew him as a disciplined and committed soldier.
Maj. Gen. Takirwa served in the army for more than three decades. During this time, he earned a reputation as a calm leader who believed in duty, teamwork, and professionalism. His long service showed strong commitment to the country, and he remained active in leadership until his final days as deputy commander of land forces.
Before taking up his last role, Maj. Gen. Takirwa commanded the UPDF Second Division based in Mbarara, western Uganda. In this position, he played a key role in maintaining security in the region and mentoring younger officers. He also served as the army’s chief of education, sports, and culture, a role that focused on building discipline, unity, and talent within the force.
Takirwa also represented Uganda beyond its borders. Between 2011 and 2012, he was among Ugandan troops deployed to Somalia under the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM). This mission aimed to support peace and stability in Somalia and to fight al Shabaab militants. His contribution was part of Uganda’s wider effort to promote regional security in the Horn of Africa.
Born in 1965 in Mbarara District, Maj. Gen. Takirwa joined the military in the late 1980s. Through hard work and dedication, he steadily rose through the ranks. His journey reflected patience and loyalty, qualities that many of his colleagues admired throughout his career.
He also invested heavily in professional training. Maj. Gen. Takirwa completed several military courses both in Uganda and abroad. His training took him to countries such as Tanzania, China, Egypt, and South Africa, helping him gain wide experience and exposure to different military systems and leadership styles.
As Uganda remembers Maj. Gen. Francis Takirwa, many see him as a symbol of service and sacrifice. His legacy lives on through the officers he trained, the missions he led, and the years he devoted to protecting his country. His death is a great loss to the UPDF and to the nation as a whole.
