A high-level Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) delegation is in Kenya for a benchmarking visit with the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), as discussions continue over controversial remarks by Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni regarding coastal access.
In a statement on Wednesday, November 13, 2025, KDF confirmed that the delegation, led by Deputy Commander of Land Forces Major General Francis Takirwa, visited the Defence Forces Welfare Services (DEFWES) headquarters at Moi Air Base in Eastleigh, Nairobi. The visit aims to strengthen bilateral military cooperation and facilitate the exchange of knowledge on welfare, housing, education, healthcare, and post-service support for military personnel and their families.
During the visit, Maj Gen Takirwa and his team were received by Brigadier Peter Limo, Managing Director of DEFWES, who briefed them on Kenya’s comprehensive welfare system. The presentation highlighted DEFWES’ formation and mandate, veterans’ support initiatives, cooperative societies, and sustainable income-generating programs designed to empower service members and their families.
The Ugandan delegation also met with Kenya Air Force Commander Major General Bernard Waliaula, who encouraged them to adopt practical solutions from Kenya’s welfare model to improve similar systems within the UPDF.
Additionally, the delegation toured the DEFWES warehouse and DEFWES Mall in Embakasi, gaining insights into logistics, supply chains, and service frameworks that support KDF personnel and their dependents. Maj Gen Takirwa praised Kenya’s structured and innovative approach to soldier welfare, stating:
“Thank you, DEFWES officials, for your time in making us understand your Defence Welfare Service. By the end of this trip, we will emulate the knowledge and embrace another visit again.”
Museveni’s Coastal Remarks Spark Debate
The visit coincides with President Museveni’s recent comments on coastal access for landlocked nations, which have stirred regional debate. Speaking in Mbale City, Museveni warned that denying maritime rights to landlocked countries could trigger future conflicts.
“Even if you want to build a navy, how can you build it when you don’t have access to the sea? That ocean belongs to me because it is my ocean. I am entitled to it. In future, we are going to have wars,” Museveni said.
He likened the situation to an apartment block, arguing that all residents are entitled to shared facilities:
“How can you say that those on the ground floor own the compound? The compound belongs to the whole block. All the flats are entitled to it,” he added.
The benchmarking visit and Museveni’s statements highlight ongoing regional conversations around military cooperation, welfare systems, and strategic access to the coast.
