President Yoweri Museveni has awarded his son, Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Kabalega Star, Uganda’s second-highest military honour, in recognition of his leadership and bravery. The ceremony took place in Kabale District during the 45th Tarehe Sita anniversary, commemorating the 1981 launch of the National Resistance Army’s bush war. The event attracted cabinet ministers, MPs, senior UPDF officers, and local leaders.
The Kabalega Star, named after Omukama Kabalega of Bunyoro who resisted British colonial rule, is awarded for acts of conspicuous gallantry that fall just short of the Order of Katonga, Uganda’s top military award. Gen. Muhoozi was recognised for his role in anti–Al-Shabaab operations and strategic missions in Somalia, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, where Uganda’s military engaged in stabilisation, counter-terrorism, and infrastructure protection.
Under Muhoozi’s leadership, Uganda’s Special Forces underwent major professionalisation, focusing on operational readiness, advanced training, and discipline. Other awardees included Lt. Kayanja Muhanga and Lt. Gen. Charles Okidi, who received the Rwenzori Star for their roles in internal and external operations, as well as Col. Samson Mande, a former NRA soldier honoured for his contributions to Uganda’s liberation struggle.
President Museveni praised the UPDF for ensuring security during the January 15 general elections, which he won with 71.65% of the valid votes. He commended the army for swiftly neutralising groups that attempted to destabilise the country, highlighting their professionalism and dedication. Gen. Muhoozi, who also serves as Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations, congratulated Museveni on what he described as Uganda’s most peaceful elections to date, calling the victory “well deserved” and the most decisive since 1996.
During his address, Museveni emphasised Kabale’s historical and strategic importance, pledging infrastructure upgrades including the Kisoro airstrip and international airports in Kabale and Mbarara to boost trade and tourism. He recalled his personal connection to Kabale, dating back to 1964, and thanked residents for their support during both the liberation struggle and the recent elections.
