The family of Godwin Aaron Tasike from Buwere village in Butiru Town Council, Manafwa District, has received UGX 29.184 million in compensation after their house was damaged by a presidential helicopter in December 2024.
Tasike, a 45-year-old machine operator with the Manafwa District Local Government and a part-time farmer, expressed deep gratitude for the support extended to his family by the Special Forces Command (SFC). “I am very happy that my call has been answered. I didn’t know how my house would be repaired—God is great,” he said emotionally.
The damage occurred as the helicopter landed and took off from the playground of Butiru Demonstration Primary School during President Yoweri Museveni’s zonal tour to assess the implementation of the Parish Development Model (PDM).
Part of the compensation package will also cover temporary accommodation for the family while renovations are carried out.
The funds were officially handed over by Maj. Newton Isaac Namazima, representing the Chief of Staff of the SFC, Brig. Gen. Paul Namawa. He emphasized that the compensation reflected the UPDF’s commitment to strengthening ties with civilians. “This is yet another moment that showcases UPDF’s dedication to fostering harmony and peace between the security forces and the public,” Maj. Namazima noted.
He praised Tasike for his patience throughout the process and thanked President Museveni and Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba for their leadership in building a people-centered military. He also acknowledged the efforts of the SFC Commander and State House Comptroller Jane Barekye for facilitating the compensation.
Patience Webule, the Resident District Commissioner of Manafwa, thanked the SFC for resolving the matter. “We, the people of Manafwa, are so humbled. It is a great relief that this matter has come to a gratifying conclusion,” she said.
