The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has unveiled a massive flagpole at its new headquarters complex in Mbuya, a structure military officials say is the tallest of its kind in Sub-Saharan Africa.
The towering mast has been installed at the new Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs headquarters, a major infrastructure project that is steadily approaching completion. Images and videos shared by the military show the giant structure rising prominently above Kampala, making it one of the most noticeable features of the new complex.
According to UPDF officials, the flagpole will soon carry what they describe as one of the largest national flags on the African continent. The installation marks a significant milestone in the ongoing construction of the headquarters, which has been under development for nearly two years.
The new facility, valued at approximately Shs94 billion, consists of twin towers and is expected to become one of the largest and most modern government office complexes in Uganda. Construction teams have already completed much of the structural work, with attention now focused on interior finishing, technology integration, and other final touches.
Engineers overseeing the project say progress remains on track, with the buildings having reached their final floors and overall completion surpassing three-quarters of the planned work. The project is expected to be ready within the timelines set by military leadership.
The development gained momentum after a visit by Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who directed engineers to expedite construction and ensure the headquarters is completed within the stipulated timeframe.
Military leaders have described the project as an important investment aimed at improving the operational effectiveness of Uganda’s defence sector. The facility is expected to provide a modern working environment while enhancing coordination among various defence departments and services.
Once completed, the headquarters will house key offices of the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs together with UPDF services under one roof. Officials believe the move will strengthen administration, improve efficiency, and support the military’s ongoing modernization efforts.
The newly installed flagpole is seen as a symbol of the project’s progress and signals that the long-awaited headquarters is entering its final phase before commissioning.
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