KAMPALA, Uganda — The Deputy Commander of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Land Forces, Maj Gen Francis Takirwa, has died.
According to the Daily Monitor, which cited security sources, Maj Gen Takirwa passed away after battling illness for some time. However, details surrounding the circumstances of his death remain limited.
The UPDF had by press time not issued a comprehensive official statement confirming the cause of death or outlining funeral and burial arrangements.
Maj Gen Takirwa was one of the senior commanders in the UPDF leadership structure, playing a key role in overseeing land force operations and internal security responsibilities.
He previously served as the Commander of the UPDF Second Division in Mbarara, where he supervised security operations in western Uganda and coordinated major military activities in the region.
During his long military career, Takirwa was regarded as a disciplined officer who rose through the ranks after years of service in Uganda’s armed forces. Military colleagues have described him as a committed commander who contributed to strengthening operational readiness within the UPDF.
News of his death has sent shockwaves through sections of the military fraternity and communities where he served, with tributes expected from senior officers and national leaders in the coming days.
His death comes at a time when the UPDF continues to play a critical role both in domestic security operations and regional peacekeeping engagements.
The army is expected to issue a formal statement in the coming days, including burial arrangements, military honours, and guidance on succession for the position of Deputy Commander Land Forces.
