Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has issued a public message of appreciation following a detailed birthday tribute from his father and President of Uganda, Yoweri Museveni, who marked his 52nd birthday with reflections on family, military service, and Uganda’s liberation history.
In his response, General Muhoozi extended gratitude to the President, his family members, senior officials in the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), government leaders, and supporters who sent him goodwill messages during the celebrations.
“I want to thank Mzee, my family members, colleagues in the UPDF, all government officials and very importantly the thousands of friends and supporters who sent me birthday wishes today,” Muhoozi said.
He added that the messages of support carried significant personal meaning, noting that they reflect the relationships he has built both within Uganda’s military establishment and among citizens who continue to follow his career closely.
“Thank you all so much. All your expressions of goodwill, love and appreciation mean a lot to me,” he stated, acknowledging the wide response to his milestone birthday.
Muhoozi’s message comes a day after President Museveni delivered an unusually personal tribute that combined family memories with political reflections, praising his son’s military role and contribution to reforms within the UPDF.
The President also used the occasion to revisit the broader history of Uganda’s liberation struggle, linking his children’s upbringing to key political moments in African and global history.
In his response, Muhoozi maintained a simple and appreciative tone, focusing on gratitude rather than political commentary.
He concluded his message with a blessing for the country, reinforcing his alignment with national service and unity.
“God bless you all and God bless Uganda,” he said.
The exchange between the President and the CDF has drawn attention, given Muhoozi’s central position in Uganda’s military hierarchy and his growing public profile.
As head of the UPDF, he has frequently been at the centre of discussions around military reform, leadership transition, and regional security.