UPDF 501 Brigade Gets New Commander

What the report says

Watchdog Uganda reports that the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces’ 501 Brigade has a new commander after a formal handover and takeover ceremony at Zoka in Adjumani District. The event was presided over by Major General Felix Busizoori, commander of the 4 Infantry Division. Lieutenant Colonel Robert Nahamya took over from Colonel Nathan Bainomugisha, who is set to attend further training at the National Defence College-Uganda.

According to the report, Maj Gen Busizoori praised both officers and said perceptions of military training have changed, with professional courses now viewed as career development rather than punishment. He credited Col Bainomugisha with contributing to stability in Zoka, Apa and nearby areas, and urged Lt Col Nahamya to build on that work through careful planning, flexible operations, proper use of resources and stronger community engagement.

Col Bainomugisha thanked the division leadership for its role in changes seen in Northern Uganda, while Lt Col Nahamya pledged to lead the brigade professionally and support the objectives of the 4 Infantry Division. Local officials also attended, including Adjumani Deputy Resident District Commissioner Emanuel Okware and Amuru Resident District Commissioner Osibon Ocheng, who commended the army’s security and community initiatives, including agriculture promotion and the Apa medical facility.

The leadership change matters because brigade command appointments shape local security coordination, civil-military relations and the implementation of UPDF priorities in sensitive areas of northern Uganda. Watchdog Uganda reported that senior division officers, battalion commanders, RDCs, departmental heads and other guests were present at the ceremony.