Several women have excelled in Uganda’s military since the country gained independence in 1962, breaking traditional gender barriers and making significant contributions to the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF). These women have broken barriers and played crucial roles in shaping Uganda’s military, contributing to defence, governance, and public service at various levels. Their achievements demonstrate how far women have come in the military sphere, a traditionally male-dominated field.

Colonel Edith Nakalema

Colonel Edith Nakalema was born in Kashaari Village, Mbarara District, in the Western Region of Uganda. She was raised by Eriyasafu Sserwadda, an Anglican parish priest and Midrace Sserwadda. Nakalema’s early life was grounded in strong moral values and a sense of community service. This foundation would shape her approach to leadership throughout her military career.

She joined the UPDF in 1999, starting a journey that would see her rise through the ranks to become a leading figure in the fight against corruption. She began her military service with the Special Forces Command (SFC), under the leadership of General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, where she rose to the rank of Major. Nakalema also contributed significantly to the establishment of a financial and accounting system within the SFC, reflecting her meticulous approach to governance and resource management.

She holds a Diploma in Business Studies from Makerere University Business School and a bachelor’s degree in Procurement and Logistics Management from Nkumba University, qualifications that have bolstered her effectiveness in military administration.

In 2014, Nakalema was appointed Personal Private Secretary (PPS) to President Yoweri Museveni, a position of immense trust, overseeing the president’s daily itinerary. Her competence and integrity in this role earned her a promotion in 2016 to Personal Assistant to the President. However, Nakalema’s ambitions went beyond administrative duties. She was admitted to the Higher Command and Staff Course at the Joint Services Command and Staff College, in Watchfield, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom in 2017.

Upon her completion in 2018, she was appointed head of the State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SHACU), where she led many high-profile investigations into corruption within Uganda’s public sector, exposing malpractice and misuse of public funds.

In her current role as head of the State House Investors Protection Unit (SHIPU), Nakalema has expanded her focus beyond anti-corruption. In August 2024, she convened a significant meeting with academicians to discuss the pressing issues of unemployment and wealth creation among Uganda’s youth, recognising the country’s young population as key to its socio-economic transformation.

“Uganda’s demographic profile presents a unique challenge and opportunity. With 82% of our population under the age of 35, the future of our nation hinges on the ability to harness this youthful energy,” Nakalema remarked.

She has championed initiatives such as the Youth Livelihood Fund and the Presidential Skilling Program to create jobs and foster entrepreneurial spirit among Uganda’s youth. Nakalema’s approach to national development reflects her commitment to not only ensuring transparency in governance but also empowering the next generation to drive Uganda forward.

Despite facing many challenges, Nakalema’s unshakable resolve and commitment to fighting corruption and fostering economic empowerment have made her a respected figure both in the defence forces and Uganda at large.