Meet The First Woman To Join Museveni's Army And Her Rise To The Rank Of Lieutenant General

Retired Ugandan military officer Proscovia Nalweyiso has spoken about the political situation surrounding opposition leader Bobi Wine, expressing confidence in his continued influence in the country’s political landscape.

Nalweyiso believes Bobi Wine remains a strong political leader who is capable of competing for top leadership positions in Uganda. Her remarks come as the opposition politician continues to play a prominent role in the country’s politics.

Nalweyiso is a retired lieutenant general of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and is widely recognised for her long military career. She holds an important place in Uganda’s history as one of the country’s most senior female military officers.

Her involvement in Uganda’s armed struggle dates back to 1982, when she joined the National Resistance Army (NRA), the rebel movement led by Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. She was among the earliest women to become actively involved in the movement during the guerrilla campaign that eventually brought Museveni to power in 1986.

In 1983, the NRA created a women’s wing, and Nalweyiso was selected to serve as its first commander. The appointment placed her in a significant leadership position during the armed struggle and established her as one of the most prominent women participating in the NRA’s military activities.

The women’s unit later relocated from the Luwero region to western Uganda in 1984 as part of the NRA’s wartime strategy. Published accounts indicate that members of the unit helped transport sick and injured fighters during the movement.

Nalweyiso and her unit were also reportedly involved in various operations during the Ugandan Bush War. Among the military activities associated with the unit was the 1985 attack on Mbarara Barracks.

Following the NRA’s victory and Museveni’s rise to power in 1986, Nalweyiso continued serving in influential government and military-related positions. 

She subsequently spent many years at State House, where she worked as a presidential adviser on matters involving defence and security.

Her extensive military service earned her recognition as one of Uganda’s most decorated female officers. 

Against this background, her assessment of Bobi Wine highlights her view that the opposition leader remains politically relevant and capable of continuing his pursuit of Uganda’s highest leadership positions.