Soldiers have been urged to adopt a culture of saving and make informed financial decisions as a foundation for long-term stability and personal growth.
The guidance was offered during a financial sensitisation session held at the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) 5 Infantry Division headquarters in Pader, led by a team from Wazalendo SACCO (WSACCO) headquarters in Kampala.
Col David Opeero, Deputy Commander of the 5 Infantry Division, stressed the importance of sound financial management in enhancing focus and operational readiness.
“Managing your finances well helps you concentrate on your duties without unnecessary worries. It supports your long-term welfare and mission readiness,” Col Opeero said.
He advised soldiers to save consistently, prepare for retirement, plan their children’s education, and make provisions for transitions such as relocations or permanent changes of station.
WSACCO’s Lt Col Peter Tuharwe emphasised the importance of thoughtful business planning and effective management before investing. He cautioned that the mobile nature of military service often leads soldiers to entrust their businesses to others, which can result in mismanagement and family disputes.
“There have been unfortunate cases where mismanagement of soldiers’ businesses has led to family misunderstandings, and in some cases, even tragic outcomes,” said Lt Col Tuharwe.
He encouraged service members to utilise WSACCO’s vetted financial services to safeguard and grow their investments.
Maj Musime Livingstone also warned against entering ventures without adequate knowledge or understanding. “Investing in something you don’t grasp often ends in loss,” he said.
In a gesture of community support, the WSACCO team and Col Opeero donated books to Agago Army Primary School, reinforcing the SACCO’s commitment to education and social responsibility.
The session was attended by both senior and junior officers, all of whom were urged to cultivate saving habits, financial discipline, and collective empowerment through WSACCO’s initiatives.
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