Army MP Bainababo takes over as UPDF director of women affairs

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Uganda army (UPDF) Member of Parliament Brig. Gen. Charity Bainababo has officially assumed office as director of women affairs.

Bainababo is taking over from Col. Christine Nekesa, who handed over office at the defence ministry (MODVA) headquarters in Mbuya on Wednesday, August 20, 2025.

The function was presided over by Joint Staff Human Resource Management Maj Gen James Kinalwa, who emphasised the importance of transfers and appointments in the UPDF, describing them as vital for institutional growth, professional development, and innovation.

Kinalwa said new appointments expose officers to fresh challenges, sharpen their abilities and prevent stagnation. 

“Human resource, like any other, must be discovered and tested to reveal its full potential,” he said.

Bainababo expressed gratitude for the appointment and dedicated the moment to the women who paved the way in the UPDF.

“This moment is not mine alone. It belongs to the many courageous women who have gone before us, women who broke barriers, challenged stereotypes, and proved that excellence knows no gender,” she said.

She paid tribute to trailblazing officers, including Lt. Gen. (rtd) Proscovia Nalweyiso, Brig. Gen. (rtd) Rebecca Mpagi, Brig. Gen. (rtd) Agnes Musoke, Col Betty Musuya and Maj. (rtd) Gertrude Njuba, noting that today’s progress rests on their legacy.

Looking ahead, Bainababo pledged to promote mentorship, raise standards of service and ensure women thrive across all spheres of military service. 

“Our mission goes beyond defending the nation. We must mentor young officers, raise standards of service, and ensure every woman in uniform thrives on the battlefield, in command, and beyond,” she said.

In a handover remarks, Nekesa highlighted the importance of sensitising units and formations on gender equity and mainstreaming. She stressed that these initiatives are not about giving women special treatment, but about creating an environment where all personnel can perform to their full potential.

Nekesa further reaffirmed the UPDF’s commitment to international humanitarian law, the Constitution of Uganda, the UPDF Act, and United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325, all of which uphold gender equality and women’s participation in the security sector.

The ceremony was attended by senior and junior officers, other ranks, and civilian staff of the MODVA.