Maj Gen Francis Takirwa, the Deputy Commander of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Land Forces, has died after suffering complications related to a stroke, bringing to a close a distinguished military career that spanned nearly four decades. The two-star general passed away on Monday morning at the UPDF National Referral Hospital in Mbuya, Kampala, according to the UPDF leadership.
Born into the revolutionary generation of soldiers, Maj Gen Takirwa joined the National Resistance Army (NRA) in 1989, shortly before it evolved into the UPDF. From those formative years, he steadily rose through the ranks, shaped by discipline, professional training, and a reputation for quiet dedication to duty. His journey reflected the growth of Uganda’s modern military itself.
Takirwa’s professional development was marked by extensive training at home and abroad. He completed the Junior Command and Staff Course in Jinja in 1994, later training in Tanzania, China, Egypt, and South Africa. These experiences helped mold him into a strategic thinker and commander trusted with sensitive responsibilities. Over the years, he served as Commander of the 2nd UPDF Division, Chief of Education, Sports and Culture, and as part of Uganda’s contribution to the African Union Mission in Somalia between 2011 and 2012.
Promoted to Major General in 2021, Takirwa was appointed Deputy Commander of the Land Forces by President Yoweri Museveni, deputizing Lt Gen Kayanja Muhanga. Until illness struck in late 2025, he remained an active pillar of the army’s leadership. His death leaves a significant void in the UPDF ranks, but his legacy of service, professionalism, and loyalty endures.