KAMPALA, Uganda — The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has been plunged into mourning following the sudden death of Major General Deus Sande, the Commander of the UPDF Armoured Division based in Masaka.
According to a statement issued by Chris Magezi, the Acting Director of Defence Public Information, Maj Gen Sande passed away early this morning in Mpigi at around 3:45am.
Magezi said the senior officer was travelling to Kampala to attend the funeral service of fellow fallen officer Major General Francis Takirwa, which was scheduled to take place at All Saints Cathedral, Nakasero.
Maj Gen Takirwa died on Saturday, February 7, 2026.
“Major General Deus Sande developed breathing complications along the way and efforts to resuscitate him at a hospital facility in Mpigi failed,” Magezi said.
The UPDF noted that the exact cause of death will be established later following further medical examination.
The passing of Maj Gen Sande marks yet another major loss within the UPDF ranks, coming shortly after the death of Maj Gen Takirwa.
The army has extended condolences to the family, relatives, friends, and colleagues of the deceased officer.
“Tragedy has struck the UPDF family again,” Magezi said, describing the death as sudden and deeply painful.
Maj Gen Deus Sande was a highly ranked officer in the UPDF and served as Commander of the Armoured Division, a key unit responsible for mechanised operations and strategic defence capabilities.
The UPDF concluded its message with condolences and a tribute: “May his soul rest in peace.”
