General Katumba Wamala has been appointed as the new Minister for Public Service in the latest cabinet reshuffle, marking a return to a key government docket for the senior military officer and seasoned administrator.
The appointment positions Gen. Katumba at the centre of Uganda’s civil service reforms, a portfolio responsible for overseeing public sector efficiency, human resource management across government ministries, and the implementation of administrative policies aimed at improving service delivery. His new role is expected to draw on his long experience in both military command and public administration.
Gen. Katumba is widely recognized for his distinguished service in the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), where he held several senior positions, including top command roles that shaped his reputation as a disciplined and strategic leader. In recent years, he has also served in civilian cabinet positions, contributing to infrastructure development and transport sector reforms.
His appointment comes at a time when the government is pushing for tighter accountability and performance standards within the public service. His experience may be seen as an asset in enforcing discipline and efficiency in the bureaucracy, although the role will also require careful navigation of complex labour and institutional challenges.
The reshuffle, which has affected several senior cabinet positions, is expected to take immediate effect following formal communication from the appointing authority.
Gen. Katumba’s return to a key ministerial docket reinforces his standing as one of the most trusted figures in government, with a career that bridges both security and civilian leadership.
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