The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has officially introduced distinct logos for each of its seven divisions. This development was outlined in a government gazette signed by the Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Adolf Mwesige, on September 18, 2019. The gazette details the insignia, decorations, uniforms, and accessories of the UPDF, in accordance with Section 160 of the UPDF Act, 2005.
According to army spokesperson Brig. Richard Karemire, this initiative reflects the UPDF’s commitment to professionalism and aligns with East African Community (EAC) protocols.
“The UPDF High Command and Defence Forces Council welcomed the conclusion of a process that began in 1996 with the Dress Committee. Standardizing the dress code is a significant step toward modernization and professionalization of the force,” said Brig. Karemire.
He noted that the new logos not only help distinguish various divisions for effective command and control but also serve as a deterrent against unauthorized use. Furthermore, they promote regional uniformity among EAC partner state militaries.
Division Logos and Their Symbols
Each division’s logo will appear on the uniforms of officers to indicate their affiliation:
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1st Division (Kakiri, Wakiso District): A gun and boot over a green lower background.
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2nd Infantry Division (Makenke Barracks, Mbarara): A gun, hoe, cow, and book (likely a Bible) on a white background.
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3rd Infantry Division (Moroto): A gun, Bible, and mountains, symbolizing the Moroto Mountains, flanked by olive branches on a white background.
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4th Division (Gulu): A leopard’s head on a green and blue background, with olive branches on either side.
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5th Infantry Division (Acholi Pi): A gun, drum, two spears, and an ostrich—representing the region’s wildlife.
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Field Artillery Division (Masindi): An artillery gun on a wheel, with the motto “Gunners determine the end state.”
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Mountain Division (Kasese): An eagle soaring above mountains on a blue and white sky-themed background, with the motto “We scale the heights.”
This move underscores the UPDF’s ongoing transformation into a modern and regionally integrated defense force.
