UgandaToday: Fresh Shock for UPDF as Senior Officer Col. Moses Amanya Dies — Cause of Death Still Unclear
By Uganda Today News Desk– Kampala
Date: 16 February 2026
Uganda’s military fraternity is once again in mourning following the reported death of Col. Moses Amanya, a senior officer in the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) Air Force, attached to operations at Entebbe International Airport. The news broke on Sunday evening, prompting an outpouring of grief across social media and within defence circles.
Col. Amanya was widely respected for his disciplined leadership, professionalism, and mentorship of junior officers throughout a distinguished career in the UPDF Air Force. Much of his service was defined by commitments to national security, operational readiness and the training of younger soldiers.
Cause of Death: Reports Mixed, Official Silence
At the time of publication, the UPDF and the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MODVA) have not issued an official statement confirming the exact cause of Col. Amanya’s death. Various social media posts and local reports have circulated conflicting accounts: some allege he died after developing health complications, while others claim he was involved in a motor accident.
However, none of these accounts have been verified by authoritative sources, and the official military channels remain silent. Efforts by Uganda Today to reach UPDF spokespeople for clarification were unsuccessful at press time.
The absence of confirmed details has led many commentators to call for a formal statement from military authorities so that the public can understand the circumstances surrounding the loss of the senior officer.
A Week of Loss for the UPDF
Col. Amanya’s passing comes amid an unusually difficult week for the nation’s armed forces. His death follows the deaths of Maj. Gen. Deus Sande, Commander of the UPDF Armoured Division based in Masaka, on 11 February 2026, and Maj. Gen. Francis Takirwa, Deputy Commander of the UPDF Land Forces, who passed away on 7 February 2026 after suffering a stroke-related illness.
The back-to-back losses have sparked reflection within military circles and raised questions among some Ugandans about health support and welfare among senior army ranks.
Tributes and Reflections
Social media tributes describe Col. Amanya as a mentor, leader and professional whose influence reached far beyond his unit. Many appreciated his commitment to training and excellence, and noted his calm temperament and dedication to service.
Col. Amanya was also remembered by some commentators for his involvement in community and religious life, reflecting a life that extended beyond military duties.
Awaiting Official Statement
The UPDF typically accords senior officers a dignified farewell, with honours and participation from top ranks, and burial arrangements that involve family and command. Uganda Today anticipates an official release detailing Col. Amanya’s cause of death, funeral plans and tributes from the UPDF high command.
For now, the UPDF’s silence on the precise circumstances of his passing has left many questions open and a grieving military community seeking answers.
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