Major General Deus Karachi Sande, former Commander of the Armoured Division of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), has been buried at his ancestral home in Kacuro Village, Kigata Parish, Kyanamira Sub-county, Ndorwa East County in Kabale District.
The senior army officer, who died on February 11, 2026, following respiratory complications, was honoured with full military rites at a ceremony attended by top government officials, military leaders, relatives, and local residents. A 13-gun salute marked the final send-off, symbolising recognition of his dedicated service to the nation.
Speaking on behalf of the government, the Minister of State for Trade, Hon Gen Wilson Mbasu Mbadi, praised Maj Gen Sande as a focused and dependable officer whose work played a key role in strengthening national security and stability. He encouraged serving members of the armed forces to draw inspiration from the late General’s commitment and to strive to build equally meaningful legacies.
Gen Mbadi emphasised that Maj Gen Sande’s leadership stood out because of his professionalism and his ability to connect easily with communities wherever he was deployed. He urged officers to remain conscious of the example they set and the impact of their service.
Representing the Chief of Defence Forces, Maj Gen Henry Masiko from the Joint Staff Political Commissariat described the deceased as a disciplined and approachable leader who maintained a healthy balance between his military duties and personal life. He noted that Maj Gen Sande was always available to both his seniors and juniors, earning widespread respect within the force.
“Gen Sande hardly ever switched off his phone; no matter the hour, he was available,” Maj Gen Masiko said, highlighting his reliability and strong work ethic.
In her tribute, the widow, Mrs. Annet Sande, spoke of her husband as a devoted family man who extended his care beyond their three biological children to many others under their guardianship. She described him as compassionate and supportive.
She also thanked President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and the UPDF leadership for the confidence they placed in her husband through various appointments, expressing her belief that he served faithfully and did not disappoint.
The requiem mass, presided over by Rev. Fr. Davis Keinamura, was attended by ministers, Members of Parliament, Resident District Commissioners, religious figures, military officers of different ranks, friends, and family members, all gathered to pay tribute to a man remembered for his integrity, dedication, and loyal service to Uganda.