Retired United States Army Lieutenant General Michael T. Flynn met Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces and Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, during a visit to Uganda aimed at strengthening relationships and discussing leadership development.

According to the Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF), Flynn held engagements with senior military leaders, including a meeting with Gen Kainerugaba at the Special Forces Command Headquarters.

Discussions on leadership and education

During the engagements, Gen Kainerugaba welcomed Flynn and briefed him on the history and operations of the UPDF, highlighting the army’s role in regional peacekeeping and cooperation with other African and international forces.

The discussions also explored the role of education and leadership development, particularly among young people.

Gen Kainerugaba noted that Uganda already operates military-run primary and secondary schools that follow the national curriculum under the Ministry of Education and Sports.

He also referenced the United States Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) as an example of how education systems can integrate leadership training and military preparation.

Dinner engagement in Kigo

The UPDF said Gen Kainerugaba later hosted Flynn for a dinner meeting at the Serena Hotel Kigo.

During the dinner, the Ugandan army chief thanked the visiting retired general for taking time to visit the country and expressed hope that the interaction would strengthen long-term relationships.

Flynn emphasized the importance of building relationships between institutions and countries over time, noting that such connections become especially important during periods of challenge.

“The most important thing you can do in life is develop relationships with people and make those relationships last over time,” Flynn said.

Focus on youth leadership and discipline

Flynn also highlighted the role of the military in developing future leaders through discipline, training, and teamwork.

He observed that Uganda’s youthful population presents an opportunity for national development if supported through structured education and leadership training.

Senior officials attend meeting

The meetings were attended by several senior UPDF officers, including Jack Bakasumba, Chief of Joint Staff of the UPDF, and Allan Matsiko, Assistant Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security responsible for Defence Engagements and International Affairs.

Flynn served for more than three decades in the United States Army and held several senior national security positions. His career culminated with his appointment as Director of the Defense Intelligence Agency.

He also served as the 25th National Security Advisor to Donald Trump, the 45th President of the United States.

According to the UPDF, Flynn is expected to hold additional engagements with military leaders and academics during his stay in Uganda.