The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has appointed Brigadier General Asaph Mweteise Nyakikuru as the new acting Commander of the Special Forces Command (SFC), in a move that ushers in a new chapter for the elite military formation charged with protecting Uganda’s top leadership and strategic national assets.
The appointment, which takes immediate effect, was announced on Monday by the Acting Director of Defence Public Information, Colonel Chris Magezi.
Alongside his appointment, Brig Gen Nyakikuru has also been granted the acting rank of Major General, reflecting the significance of his new responsibilities within the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).
He replaces Major General David Mugisha, who will soon leave the country to undertake studies at a National Defence College (NDC) abroad as part of the UPDF’s strategic leadership development programme.
“The Chief of Defence Forces UPDF and Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations (SPA/SO), Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba has appointed Brig Gen Asaph Mweteise Nyakikuru the acting Commander of the Special Forces Command (SFC). Brig Gen Nyakikuru is also granted the acting rank of Major General,” Col Magezi said in a statement.
Transition at the Helm of the Elite Force
The change of command comes after Major General Mugisha’s tenure leading the Special Forces Command, one of the UPDF’s most specialised units. The SFC is responsible for protecting the President, members of the First Family, vital national installations and other strategic security operations.
His departure for advanced military studies is part of the UPDF’s long-standing practice of preparing senior commanders for higher strategic and command responsibilities through professional military education.
The military praised Maj Gen Mugisha for his leadership during his time at the helm of the SFC.
“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.
Experienced Officer Takes Charge
Acting Maj Gen Nyakikuru assumes command at a time when the Special Forces Command continues to play a critical role in Uganda’s national security architecture.
Although the UPDF statement did not elaborate on his previous assignments, his elevation to acting Major General signals confidence in his leadership and operational experience.
The military also congratulated him on what it described as a well-deserved appointment.
“We also congratulate Acting Major General Asaph Mweteise Nyakikuru on his deserved appointment and promotion. We also wish him good luck in his new duties,” Col Magezi said.
Strategic Importance of the SFC
The Special Forces Command remains one of the UPDF’s most elite formations, entrusted with high-value security assignments ranging from presidential protection to safeguarding key national infrastructure and conducting specialised operations.
Over the years, the unit has evolved into a highly trained force with capabilities extending beyond VIP protection to include counterterrorism, special operations and rapid response missions.
The latest appointment underscores the UPDF’s continued emphasis on leadership renewal and professional development as senior commanders rotate between operational command and advanced military education.
With Acting Maj Gen Nyakikuru now assuming command, attention will turn to how he steers the elite force as it continues to execute some of the country’s most sensitive security responsibilities.
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- Charles Gazza Kodili is a seasoned journalist with over 20 years of experience in the media industry. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communication. He’s currently the Chief Editor at the Investigator.
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