Japan, Uganda Partner to Support Rehabilitation of War-Affected Veterans

Uganda has taken a new step in caring for its war-affected veterans through a Japan-funded project focused on rehabilitation, counselling, and vocational training.

The initiative, valued at USD 478,577 and sponsored by the Nippon Foundation, was officially launched on Thursday by the Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Hon. Jacob Marksons Oboth, at the Defence Forces Rehabilitation and Vocational Centre in Mubende.

The program, titled “Consolidating Physical and Psychosocial Services at Mubende Rehabilitation Centre and Establishing a Veterans Skilling Centre in Kakiri,” aims to enhance medical recovery, provide psychosocial services, and equip injured soldiers and veterans with livelihood skills to help them reintegrate into society.

A Milestone for Uganda’s Veterans
Speaking at the ceremony, Hon. Oboth described the partnership as a milestone in Uganda’s efforts to uphold the dignity of those who defended the nation.

“This project represents a significant step forward in strengthening the welfare and dignity of our veterans and serving soldiers who have sacrificed for the peace and security of our beloved country,” he said.

He recalled Uganda’s turbulent history, marked by eight regime changes in just two decades after independence, and acknowledged the heavy toll on soldiers. While noting Uganda’s present role as a peacekeeping power in Africa, Oboth stressed that caring for veterans must remain central.

“The Nippon Foundation project is a blueprint for inclusive development, a model for civil-military synergy, and a testament to Uganda’s enduring commitment to peace, dignity, and transformation. Let us build as we heal,” he added.

Japan’s Commitment
Japan’s Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. Takuya Sasayama, reaffirmed his country’s dedication to supporting Uganda’s soldiers and veterans, connecting the project to years of defence cooperation.

“I commend my seniors for keeping their word made more than seven years ago, which today has become a reality. This project reflects our shared belief that security is not only about military strength, but also about how we care for those who have borne the burden of defending our nations,” he said.

Beyond Physical Recovery
According to Mrs. Rosette Byengoma, Permanent Secretary of Defence, the initiative goes far beyond medical care.

“True security is measured not only by military strength, but by how a nation cares for its veterans,” she said, adding her gratitude to Japan for its enduring partnership.

Mr. Takeju Ogata, Chairperson of the Nippon Foundation, echoed that sentiment, emphasising the importance of improving the welfare of soldiers disabled by war.

“We are grateful that our Foundation can contribute to the welfare of soldiers injured in war, especially those who served to protect people outside Uganda. I hope for a day when the world will be free of conflict, but until then, we must care for those who continue to be wounded while sacrificing their lives for others,” he said.

He also reflected on the symbolism of the day’s rain, describing it as a reminder of renewal and the bond between nature, humanity, and friendship.

Strengthening the Mubende Centre
The Commandant of the Defence Forces Rehabilitation and Vocational Centre, Brig Gen Moses Kwikiriza, welcomed the support as crucial to improving services for veterans.

“Today’s occasion marks a vital step forward in our commitment to care, rehabilitate and reintegrate our injured service personnel and veterans into society. The equipment donated will make a real difference in the lives of those undergoing the rehabilitation program,” he said.

He noted that the project would allow the Centre to expand and modernise its training programs.

“This effort would not have been possible without the support of His Excellency the President, the UPDF leadership, our Japanese partners, and the dedicated staff and healthcare professionals whose work reflects the highest standards of service and compassion,” Brig Gen Kwikiriza added.

Looking Back, Moving Forward
Founded in 1986 as the Chieftaincy of Mubende Rehabilitation Centre, the institution—now the Defence Forces Rehabilitation and Vocational Centre—has long provided prosthetics, hearing aids, psychological support, and livelihood training for disabled soldiers.

With Japan’s new contribution, the Centre is expected to broaden its services and give veterans better pathways into civilian life or redeployment within the army.