Maj Gen Francis Takirwa, the Deputy Commander of Land Forces in the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), has passed away at the age of 61. Maj Gen Francis Takirwa cause of death has been revealed.
A seasoned soldier, Maj Gen Takirwa dedicated over 30 years to military service, rising through the ranks to become one of the most senior commanders in the UPDF.
He served in various key roles, including as Commander of the 2nd UPDF Division in Mbarara, Chief of Education, Sports and Culture, and as part of the Ugandan contingent in Somalia under AMISOM from 2011 to 2012.
Maj Gen Takirwa’s death is a significant loss to the UPDF, and his contributions to Uganda’s military and security will be remembered.
Maj Gen Francis Takirwa cause of death
He had been ill for some time. In a death announcement, acting UPDF and defence spokesperson Col Chris Magezi said that Maj Gen Francis Takirwa breathed his last in Mbuya in the morning of Saturday, 07 February 2026.
“The UPDF fraternity with deep sorrow announces the death of Major General Francis Takirwa which occurred this morning at about 0600 hours at the UPDF National Referral Hospital Mbuya,” Col Magezi said.
After spending days at Nakasero Hospital since early December 2025, Maj Gen Francis Takirwa was transferred to Mbuya on Friday, before he passed on hours later. He succumbed to “complications of stroke,” according to Magezi.
“He died from complications of stroke,” the acting UPDF and defence spokesperson confirmed.
“The General was initially admitted at Nakasero Hospital from December 9, 2025 until yesterday, Friday, February 6, 2026 when he was referred to the UPDF facility for long term care and management.”
The army is expected to announce Maj Gen Francis Takirwa burial arrangements soon.
“We condole with his family, relatives, and friends,” Magezi further wrote. “Details of burial arrangements will be communicated later. MHSRIP.”
You can read our earlier report on Maj Gen Francis Takirwa’s death Here.
