Uganda’s new Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MoDVA) and Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) headquarters in Mbuya has reached 87 per cent completion, with the facility expected to be commissioned in December 2026.
Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba commended the UPDF Engineering Brigade for its progress during a site inspection on Monday, September 14, where he praised engineers and other construction personnel for their commitment to completing the project.
Gen Muhoozi also assured the workforce that their contribution would be recognised, promising special appreciation once the facility is handed over.
The headquarters is being constructed entirely by the UPDF Engineering Brigade after the project was launched in August 2024. It is intended to address longstanding challenges caused by fragmented office facilities and establish a central command and administrative hub for Uganda’s defence establishment.
The planned facility consists of a twin-tower complex designed to improve coordination between the Ministry of Defence and operational military leadership.
According to the Defence Press Unit, the complex will feature modern communication hubs, advanced command installations and digital operational systems intended to support faster decision-making and coordination.
Security infrastructure has also been strengthened through the construction of a two-kilometre perimeter fence, upgraded quarter guards and alternative access routes.
Gen Muhoozi has previously stressed the importance of modern defence infrastructure in improving operational efficiency and supporting contemporary military strategies.
The project initially faced a longer completion timeline but was accelerated following directives from the CDF, with engineers maintaining construction standards while working to meet the revised schedule.
Once commissioned, the facility will replace outdated administrative units on Mbuya Hill and bring key defence offices together under one modern complex.
During the inspection, Gen Muhoozi was accompanied by UPDF Chief of Joint Staff Lt Gen Jack Bakasumba, MoDVA Undersecretary Edith Butuuro and other senior military and ministry officials.
The technical team leading the project included Joint Staff Engineering’s Col James Lwegaba, Project Engineer Col Robert Chabo and site engineer Capt Kikomeko Kigongo, who guided the CDF through the construction site.
The December commissioning will mark a major milestone in Uganda’s efforts to modernise its defence infrastructure and consolidate military command operations.