The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) mourns the loss of two senior officers, Brigadier General Fred Twinamatsiko and Brigadier General (Rtd) Kyambadde Katende, who tragically passed away in a car accident on Masaka Road on Friday, September 13, 2024. The officers were returning from the burial of Defense Minister and Kisoro District Woman MP, Sarah Mateke.
Brig Gen Fred Twinamatsiko Kateitwa, Director of Training and Doctrine for the UPDF Land Forces, was a decorated officer whose career spanned several decades. He was born on November 28, 1962, and his education began at Nyabirerema Primary School in Rukiga District. He later attended Makobore High School for O-Level and Makerere College for A-Level before joining Makerere University, where he graduated with a Second Class Upper degree in Economics and Rural Economy in 1983.
His military journey began soon after his university graduation when he joined the National Resistance Army (NRA). In 1988, he underwent military training in Yugoslavia, and by 1991, he completed a cadet course, earning the rank of 2nd Lieutenant. His dedication and leadership earned him successive promotions, and by 1995, he had risen to the rank of Captain, after excelling at a senior commanders course in Munduri, Tanzania.
Brig Gen Twinamatsiko held several key roles in the UPDF throughout his career, including Paymaster for the 1st Division from 1989 to 1994, and later an instructor at the Gaddafi Garrison Unit. In 2022, he was promoted to the rank of Brigadier. He also completed numerous military courses in various countries, including Kenya, Sweden, Yugoslavia, and Tanzania.
Brig Gen (Rtd) Katende Kyambadde, who retired from active service last year, was also an esteemed officer with a long and distinguished career in the UPDF.
A church service in honor of Brig Gen Twinamasiko will be held today, Tuesday, September 17, 2024, at Nyabirerema Church of Uganda in Bukinda, Rukiga District. His burial will take place on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, in Bukinda, Rukiga District.
Brig Gen. Fred Twinamatsiko, son of Elivaida and Francis Kateitwa, has left behind nine children—seven daughters and two sons—who, along with his family and the nation, mourn his passing.
Both officers leave behind a legacy of dedication, discipline, and service to their country. Their untimely deaths are a significant loss to the UPDF and the nation.
ENDS/////
