The construction of the new Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MoDVA) and Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) headquarters in Mbuya has reached 87 per cent completion, with the facility expected to be commissioned in December.
The development was confirmed by the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, during a site visit to the project on Monday, where he inspected the progress of the construction works.
Gen Kainerugaba commended the UPDF Engineering Brigade and other construction personnel for their commitment to completing what he described as a landmark facility.
He also assured the workers that their efforts would be recognised, pledging special appreciation once the project is completed and handed over.
The project, which officially started in August 2024, is being constructed entirely by the UPDF Engineering Brigade. It was initiated to address the long-standing challenge of scattered defence offices and create a more centralised administrative and command structure.
The new complex is designed to bring together key defence and military offices while improving coordination between the civilian Ministry of Defence and the operational military leadership.
The facility will include modern communication hubs, high-tech command installations and digital operational systems intended to support the work of the country’s defence leadership.
Security infrastructure at the site has also been enhanced, including a two-kilometre perimeter fence, modernised quarter guards and alternative access routes.
According to the project team, construction was initially expected to take longer, but progress was accelerated following directives from the CDF while maintaining the required construction standards.
Once commissioned, the new headquarters will replace the outdated administrative units currently operating on Mbuya Hill and provide a unified base for Uganda’s military command and defence administration.
During his inspection, Gen Kainerugaba was guided around the site by lead engineers, including Col James Lwegaba of Joint Staff Engineering, Project Engineer Col Robert Chabo and site engineer Capt Kikomeko Kigongo.
The tour was also attended by the UPDF Chief of Joint Staff, Lt Gen Jack Bakasumba, MoDVA Undersecretary Edith Butuuro and other senior UPDF and ministry officials.
