MOROTO, Uganda — The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) 3rd Infantry Division has welcomed Col. Santurino Mashereka Tumuranzye as the new Division Operations and Training Officer (DOTO), marking a smooth transition of leadership aimed at strengthening security efforts in Eastern Uganda.
The handover ceremony took place at Moroto Army Barracks, where officers gathered to honor the outgoing DOTO, Col. James Barigye Rukundo, for his dedication to enhancing security coordination, peacebuilding, and operational efficiency during his tenure.
Presiding over the ceremony on behalf of Brig. Gen. Wilberforce Sserunkuma, the Division Commander, was Col. Joseph Patrick Ocen, Commander of the 106 Artillery Brigade.
He praised Rukundo’s exemplary service, noting, “The office of the DOTO is integral and vital. We must thank Rukundo for ably performing in achieving our mission.”
Tumuranzye, known for his extensive experience in training, intelligence, and operations, pledged to uphold the high standards set by his predecessor and emphasized the importance of teamwork in achieving the division’s strategic objectives.
“I’m committed to building on the foundation laid and working closely with our officers to sustain our mission,” he said.
Ocen assured Tumuranzye of full support from the division’s leadership, officers, and staff, reinforcing a collective commitment to operational readiness during the current consolidation phase.
Both outgoing and incoming officers expressed gratitude to the UPDF leadership for the opportunity to serve in critical roles within the division.
The event was attended by commanders and departmental heads from the division headquarters and its affiliated units.
