The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has announced a major leadership change within its Armoured Division following the death of its commander, Major General Deus Sande.

In an official communication released on Thursday, February 12, 2026, the Acting Director of Defence Public Information, Colonel Chris Magezi, confirmed that the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations (SPA/SO), General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has appointed Brigadier General Jackson Pande Kajuba as the new commander of the UPDF Armoured Division based in Masaka.

Brigadier General Kajuba replaces the late Major General Deus Sande, who passed away on Wednesday after reportedly suffering severe breathing complications. The announcement comes amid mourning within the UPDF, as tributes continue to pour in for the fallen senior officer.

Before his new appointment, Brigadier General Kajuba had been serving as Deputy Commander of the UPDF Armoured Division, working directly under Major General Deus Sande. His promotion to the top position is seen as a continuation of command stability, given his previous role and experience in the division.

Alongside Kajuba’s appointment, Colonel Wilson Bagonza Rwakanara, previously serving under the Special Forces Command (SFC), has been promoted to the rank of Brigadier General and appointed as the new Deputy Commander of the UPDF Armoured Division.

According to the UPDF statement, the appointments take immediate effect.

The UPDF Armoured Division is regarded as one of the force’s important formations, supporting Uganda’s defence readiness and broader security responsibilities, including mechanized operations.

Colonel Magezi, speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MODVA) and the UPDF leadership, congratulated the newly appointed generals and wished them success in executing their responsibilities.