Africa-Press – Uganda. The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has mourned the passing of Major General Deus Sande Karachi, former Commander of the Armoured Division in Masaka, during a requiem Mass held at Bugonga Catholic Church in Entebbe on Saturday.
According to the Acting Director of Defence Public Information, Colonel Chris Magezi, Sande passed away at around 03:45 on Wednesday in Mpigi District due to breathing complications.
He was en route to All Saints Cathedral, Nakasero in Kampala, to attend the funeral of the late former Deputy Commander of the UPDF Land Forces, Major General Francis Takirwa.
Speaking on behalf of the government, Minister of State for Animal Industry, Col. (Rtd) Bright Rwamirama, described Sande as an intellectual and instructor who made significant sacrifices during the liberation struggle at a time when many Ugandans were internally displaced.
“He was among those who sacrificed when nearly 20 per cent of Ugandans were refugees in their own country. Because of that sacrifice, Uganda is today peaceful and stable,” Rwamirama said, urging citizens to prioritise their health and heed early warning signs of illness.
Representing the Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Commander of the Air Force, Lt. Gen. Charles Okidi, described Sande as organised, disciplined and deeply committed to peace and professionalism within the UPDF.
“The UPDF fraternity has lost a remarkable leader who touched many lives during his service,” Okidi said.
On behalf of the family, Mrs. Annet Sande paid tribute to her late husband’s devotion to duty and family.
“He had a listening ear, constant love and unwavering support for us. His strength and character defined him. His legacy will live on through the many lives he mentored and touched,” she said.
A veteran of the National Resistance Army (NRA) bush war, Sande rose steadily through the ranks of the UPDF, eventually becoming Commander of the Armoured Division at Kasijagirwa Barracks in Masaka, a key mechanised formation responsible for armoured warfare readiness, training, and deployment.
He also served with Ugandan contingents under the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), contributing to stabilisation and peace support operations.
In 2020, while serving as Brigadier General and Commander of the Mechanised Brigade in Masaka, Sande was noted for his public remarks during a period of heightened political discourse.
Following his passing, Gen. Muhoozi appointed Brig. Gen. Jackson Pande Kajuba as the new Commander of the Armoured Division. Wilson Bagonza Rwakanara of the Special Forces Command was promoted to Brigadier General and appointed Deputy Commander of the division.
The requiem Mass was led by Rev Fr John Paul Jjumba and attended by senior generals, officers, clergy, family members, and friends who described Sande’s death as a significant loss to the UPDF and the nation, honouring his dedication and service to Uganda.
