KAMPALA — President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has commended retiring Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) generals for their contribution to Uganda’s peace and security, as heightened tensions in the Middle East and a security incident involving Ugandan truck drivers in South Sudan dominate regional and international headlines.

Museveni made the remarks on Thursday, August 20, 2026, during a retirement ceremony for 19 UPDF General Officers at State House, Entebbe.

The President praised the retiring officers for their service and linked Uganda’s security progress to patriotism, modern military technology and the strength of the national economy. He said the officers had made significant contributions to the UPDF and the country during their years of service.

The retirement of the generals formed part of a wider UPDF retirement programme involving 1,817 officers and militants. The group included 19 General Officers, 229 Senior Officers, 205 Junior Officers and 1,364 militants.

Among the senior officers retiring are Gen Edward Katumba Wamala, Lt Gen Charles Otema Awany, Lt Gen Charles Angina, Maj Gen Abel Kandiho, Maj Gen Geofrey Katsigazi Tumusiime, Maj Gen Apollo Kasiita-Gowa and Maj Gen Leopold Eric Kyanda.

The UPDF said the retirees had dedicated their careers to safeguarding Uganda’s sovereignty, contributing to regional peace and upholding the force’s values of discipline, patriotism and Pan-Africanism.

Six Ugandan Truck Drivers Missing in South Sudan

Meanwhile, six Ugandan truck drivers are reported missing in Bor Town, Jonglei State, South Sudan, after armed men allegedly seized their trucks.

The incident reportedly occurred between Tuesday and Wednesday at Mina Fish Port and Lew-dier docking site, both located along the White Nile. The trucks were reportedly being used to transport fish destined for Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The drivers were reportedly forced to drive the vehicles to unknown destinations. South Sudan’s military has denied involvement, saying the incident was allegedly carried out by armed civilians.

The incident has raised fresh concerns over the safety of Ugandan commercial drivers and cross-border trade along the Uganda-South Sudan transport corridor.

US Escalates Economic Pressure on Iran

In international developments, the United States has announced a major escalation of economic pressure against Iran as efforts to revive negotiations remain stalled.

US President Donald Trump has threatened a sweeping economic campaign targeting Iran and countries that continue to provide it access to global trade and financial networks.

The move comes amid heightened tensions over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy shipping route, and continuing uncertainty over US-Iran negotiations.

Global markets are closely watching the developments, particularly the potential impact on oil supplies, shipping, inflation and international trade. Prolonged disruption in the Middle East could increase pressure on energy prices and add to uncertainty for businesses and investors.

Iran has rejected the US threats and warned that it would respond to intensified economic and military pressure.

Security and Economic Pressure Dominate Headlines

The developments highlight the close links between security, trade and economic stability in Uganda, Africa and the wider global economy.

While Uganda marks the retirement of senior military officers who played key roles in the country’s security establishment, the disappearance of Ugandan truck drivers in South Sudan underscores continuing security risks along important regional trade routes.

At the international level, the US-Iran confrontation is raising broader concerns over energy supplies, global markets and the economic consequences of prolonged geopolitical tensions.

NMG Today will continue to follow developments in Uganda, the region and around the world as more information becomes available.