[1] In this capacity, its role is to preserve, defend and protect the people, property, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Uganda, contributing to regional stability and supporting international peace initiatives.

[2] During the colonial days, the national defence forces were named King's African Rifles (KAR).

The force that fought the Uganda Bush War, from 8 February 1981 to 26 January 1986, was called the National Liberation Army.

In 1995, when a new constitution was promulgated, the name was changed to Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF).

This ensures that the UPDF is ultimately answerable to the people of Uganda, while it remains professional, with focus on protecting its citizens, defending national sovereignty and contributing to regional stability.