Maj Gen Francis Okello, Commandant of the National Defence College Uganda (NDC-U) and senior officer in the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), has called on the people of Hoima to embrace unity in diversity as a key driver of national development and security.
Speaking at events in Kigorobya Sub-county and at Hoima City headquarters during a nationwide research study conducted by NDC-U course members, Maj Gen Okello stressed the need to move beyond stereotypes linked to diversity. “Uganda is multi-ethnic and must unite to identify problems, which will enhance decision-making, promote creativity, and lead to development that directly impacts national security,” he said.
He credited President and Commander-in-Chief, Gen (Rtd) Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, for advocating the politics of shared interests over identity, emphasising the importance of collective effort in advancing national priorities.
Maj Gen Okello further encouraged local communities to adopt mechanised agriculture and avoid land fragmentation. He suggested that those with limited land holdings consider the President’s four-acre farming model to increase productivity on small plots.
Brig Gen Charity Bainababo, a UPDF Member of Parliament and fellow NDC-U course member, reaffirmed the importance of unity in diversity, noting that the success of the UPDF stems from its diverse recruitment base.
Mr Mugabi Badru, Hoima City Resident Commissioner, praised the UPDF for its role in maintaining peace and stability, attributing this to the professionalism and commitment of the force.
The event was also attended by Prof Murindwa Rutanga, Head of the Faculty of Postgraduate Studies at NDC-U; Brig Gen Johnson Nuwamanya, Head of Research at NDC-U; and Mr Michael Kyakashari, Deputy Resident District Commissioner for Hoima District, along with other officials.
