Date: March 21, 2025
Colonel David Byaruhanga, a senior officer in the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), has tragically passed away from injuries sustained on the battlefield in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo).
The news of his death was confirmed by the 4th Infantry Division’s Public Information Officer, Captain David Kamya, who stated,
"I have got a confirmation from our Division Commander (Major General Felix Busizoori) that death has taken our own senior officer, Col David Byaruhanga.
"Byaruhanga, who was the commanding officer of the 409 Brigade based in Bondo, Arua District, succumbed to bullet wounds sustained during a frontline operation in DR Congo.
After being injured in combat, Byaruhanga was evacuated to Nakasero Hospital in Kampala, where he had been receiving medical treatment. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, he passed away, marking a tragic loss to the UPDF and the country.Colonel Byaruhanga’s death comes as a heavy blow to the 4th Infantry Division, where he was highly regarded for his leadership and dedication to duty.
Known for his professionalism, Byaruhanga had played a crucial role in several significant military operations, including those in DR Congo, where the UPDF has been engaged in ongoing peacekeeping and security operations aimed at stabilizing the region.In addition to his role in DR Congo, Byaruhanga had been instrumental in efforts to curb the illegal charcoal trade in the Acholi sub-region of northern Uganda. Under Presidential Executive Order No. 3, which aimed at addressing the environmental damage caused by illegal charcoal burning, Byaruhanga was one of the key officers overseeing the implementation of the directive, which included a comprehensive crackdown on illegal activities affecting the region’s ecosystem.
Furthermore, Byaruhanga had made notable contributions in the pacification of the Karamoja region during the UPDF's operations against the Karacuna warriors.
His leadership and strategic planning were vital in bringing relative peace and stability to the region, helping to restore security and order.The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has hailed Colonel Byaruhanga as a hero and a dedicated servant to his country.
In a statement released by Captain Kamya, he said, “May his soul rest in everlasting peace.”
The death of Byaruhanga has left a significant void in the UPDF, but his legacy will live on through his contributions to Uganda’s national security and peacekeeping efforts.
The UPDF is expected to hold a special memorial service to honor Colonel Byaruhanga’s life and his contributions to the force. His passing is not only a loss to the military community but also to the people of Uganda, especially in the regions where his efforts made a tangible difference.Colonel David Byaruhanga is remembered as a man of great courage and leadership, dedicated to his country, and he will be greatly missed by his colleagues, comrades, and the nation at large.
