The Chief of Defence Forces Gen Wilson Mbasu Mbadi yesterday praised the late Maj Gen Stephen T Rwabantu for sacrifice and bravery while serving his country.
In a speech delivered by the General Officer Commanding Reserve Forces Lt Gen Charles Otema, Gen Mbadi noted that the late Gen Rwabantu has been instrumental in restoring peace and stability in Uganda.
He added that on behalf of Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), he condoles with the family and country.
“UPDF is saddened for the loss of an experienced and instrumental soldier, Rest in Peace Maj Gen Stephen T Rwabantu,” the CDF said.
He applauded his bravery and determination that contributed much to the liberation of this country. The Chief of Defence Forces contributed UGX 5million towards the burial of the fallen General.
The Managing Director National Enterprise Corporation Lt Gen James Mugira lauded all people who attended the burial for comforting the family of the late Maj Gen Stephen Rwabantu in this trying moment. He described the fallen General as a well-disciplined soldier with good personality. He urged all family members to remain united and maintain the General’s legacy.
The General Camp Commandant UPDF Bombo Maj Gen Joram Kakari Tumwine thanked the President and Commander in Chief of the UPDF His Excellence Gen Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for the guidance during the liberation struggle that later gave Uganda the Peace we see today.
He described the fallen General Officer as a brave soldier and good morale booster especially during the bush times.
He commended UPDF for being a disciplined Army and maintaining Peace and stability not only in Uganda but globally.
The Member of Parliament Mbarara North Hon Dr. Robert Rukari in unison with Mbarara City Lord Mayor, pledged to name one of the roads in Mbarara City after the fallen General, noting that this will be a symbolic gesture recognizing the contribution of Maj Gen Stephen Rwabantu towards the pacification of Uganda.
Maj Gen Stephen T Rwabantu was born on 19th August, 1958 in Mbarara district.
He joined the Army in 1979 at Kakoba- Mbarara district and later joined the National Resistance Army (NRA) on 7th March, 1981 in Matuga.
He held several Appointments that include; 4th Division Commander in 1990, Camp Commandant General headquarters Mbuya in 1992, Division Commander Artillery in 1998, Commanding Officer Mubende Rehabilitation center and Deputy General Officer Commanding Reserve Forces from 2013 – 2021, among others.
According to UPDF Director Medical Services Brig Gen Dr Kusasira, confirmed that Maj Gen Stephen T Rwabantu died of cancer of the throat on 7th August, 2021 Maj Gen Rwabantu is survived with 4 children, 3 boys and 1 girl, and 5 grandchildren.
11-gun salute sent Maj Gen Stephen T Rwabantu to his final resting place in Ruharo- Kamukuzi Division, Mbarara City.
Present at the burial ceremony was the state minister for Internal Affairs Gen David Muhoozi, deputy Chief Operation Wealth Creation Maj Gen Sam Kavuma, deputy Commander Air Force Maj Gen Tumusiime Katsigazi, Chief Political Commissar Maj Gen Henry Matsiko, Second Division Commander Maj Gen Francis Takirwa, Chief of Staff UPDF Reserve Forces, Government officials, Generals, Senior and Junior officers, and family members, among others.