The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations (SPA/SO), Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba has promoted Brigadier General Joseph Musoke Ssemwanga to the rank of Major General and appointed him the Deputy Commander of the UPDF Land Forces.
Maj Gen Ssemwanga’s appointment took effect in December 2025 after Maj Gen Francis Takirwa fell ill, according to the UPDF acting director public information, Col Chris Magezi who made the announcement on Saturday, February 7, 2026.
“Major General Ssemwanga replaces Major General Francis Takirwa (RIP) who passed away this morning after illness,” Col Magezi said in a statement on X. President Museveni’s son
Maj Gen Ssemwanga was until recently the Contingent Commander of UPDF troops serving under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). Before his deployment to Somalia towards the end of 2024, Maj Gen Ssemwanga served as the 1st Infantry Division Commander with headquarters at Kakiri, Wakiso District.
Maj Gen Takirwa was announced dead on Saturday morning due to complications of stroke.
According to Col Magezi, Maj Gen Takirwa was initially admitted at Nakasero Hospital from December 9, 2025 until Friday, February 6, 2026 when he was referred to the UPDF facility for long term care and management.
“Until his illness, Major General Takirwa served as the Deputy Commander of the UPDF Land Forces headquartered in Bombo. We condole with his family, relatives, and friends. Details of burial arrangements will be communicated later,” Col Magezi added.