Takeaways

• Fred Zakye concluded his tour of duty and officially handed over to Edward Ronald Mutaawe in Addis Ababa.
• The farewell dinner was attended by Ugandan embassy officials, Ethiopian diplomats, and senior military leaders, reflecting strong bilateral relations.
• The transition reinforces Uganda–Ethiopia defence cooperation, building on engagements involving Yoweri Museveni and military exchanges with Ethiopian defence leadership.

Uganda’s Defence Attaché to Ethiopia, Brig. Gen. Fred Zakye, has officially concluded his tour of duty, handing over office to his successor, Brig. Gen. Edward Ronald Mutaawe.

A farewell dinner was held in Addis Ababa to honour Brig. Gen. Zakye, bringing together officials from the Uganda Embassy, Ethiopian diplomats, and senior military officers.

During the function, Brig. Gen. Zakye expressed gratitude to H.E. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for entrusting him with the assignment, and also thanked the Government and people of Ethiopia for their cooperation and hospitality throughout his tenure.

The transition marks the continuation of strong defence and diplomatic relations between Uganda and Ethiopia, which have remained steady over the years, particularly in areas of regional security cooperation in the Horn of Africa and the Nile Basin.

While serving in Addis Ababa, Brig. Gen. Zakye played a key role in strengthening military collaboration between the two countries, including facilitating high-level engagements such as visits by Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba and other senior military delegations. Uganda also hosted top Ethiopian military leadership, including the Chief of Defence Staff of the Ethiopian National Defence Forces, Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, in reciprocal exchanges aimed at deepening bilateral ties.

Speaking at the farewell dinner, Uganda’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, H.E. Rebecca Amuge Otengo, commended Brig. Gen. Zakye for his dedicated service, particularly highlighting his coordination efforts during the COVID-19 period, when he helped facilitate the smooth repatriation of Ugandans in difficult circumstances.

Among those who sent messages of appreciation was gospel artist Levixone, who congratulated the outgoing attaché, saying:

“Congratulations, Uncle Brig. Gen. Fred Zakye, on successfully completing your tour of duty as Uganda’s Defence Attaché to Ethiopia. Your dedication, professionalism, and faithful service are truly inspiring. Wishing you God’s continued favour, good health, and even greater achievements in the next chapter. We are so proud of you.”