UPDF Opens 16th Army Shop to Cut Soldiers’ Living Costs

What the report says

The Uganda People’s Defence Forces has opened its 16th Defence Forces Shop branch at Katabi Barracks in Entebbe, according to Nile Post. The new outlet is meant to give soldiers access to lower-priced household items and construction materials as part of broader efforts to improve service welfare and reduce living costs.

Deputy Chief of Defence Forces Lt Gen Sam Okiding commissioned the facility and said the shops are intended to ease financial pressure on soldiers by offering quality goods below prevailing market prices. He linked welfare measures such as access to medical care, education and accommodation to the army’s overall effectiveness, saying personnel should be able to focus on duty without unnecessary distraction.

The Katabi branch reportedly stocks items including cement, roofing sheets, water tanks, steel bars, paint, soap and nails. Defence Forces Shop Uganda Limited general manager Col Deus Taremwa said the service is designed to meet soldiers’ needs across rank levels and is meant to operate on demand while remaining financially sustainable.

Air Force Commander Lt Gen Charles Okidi also backed the initiative, saying military responsibilities extend beyond combat and include supporting families. He urged transparent management of the facilities and warned against using soldiers’ welfare for personal gain. The launch was attended by supplier representatives, including several construction and manufacturing companies.