Retired Lt Gen Charles Otema Awany says he considers himself fortunate to have returned home alive after 47 years of military service through some of the most turbulent periods in Uganda’s history.
Speaking to Favour fm after his retirement from the Uganda People’s Defence Forces, Otema said many of the officers and friends he joined the army with are no longer alive.
Otema was among 19 senior generals who retired from the UPDF last week, bringing to an end a military career that began in 1979.
On Saturday, he returned to his ancestral home in Tangi Cell, Purongo Town Council in Nwoya District, where he was welcomed by clan elders and underwent traditional cleansing rites.
The ceremony included stepping on an egg and stepping over a Layibi tree log, practices traditionally associated with cleansing and welcoming home people who have spent long periods away.
Following his retirement, Otema says he intends to devote more time to agriculture and hospitality.
He owns agricultural enterprises in Nwoya District and a hospitality business in Gulu City. His return has also been welcomed by traditional leaders in Acholi.
Acholi Paramount Chief Rwot David Onen Acana II says Otema’s return home alive after decades in the military was an achievement worth celebrating.
By By URN
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