Brig. Gen. Stephen Kigundu: Biography, Career, Education, Cause of Death

Brigadier General Stephen Kigundu (April 3, 1977 – March 31,2024) was a military officer in the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) who served as the Deputy Commander Air Force.

Early Life and Education

Born on April 3, 1977, in Bugonga, Uganda, Stephen Kigundu joined the UPDF on July 27, 1999, at Hoima, where he began his journey towards becoming a seasoned military leader.

Military Career

Gen Kigundu pursued advanced training opportunities both locally and internationally to hone his skills and expertise.

One of the significant milestones in his career was his training as a paratrooper in Israel, where he acquired essential skills in Pilot Air Force management, Operations, Combat Training, and Junior Command Tactics. Additionally, he attended the prestigious Air Command Staff College in the United States, further enhancing his strategic and leadership capabilities.

Throughout his career, Gen Kigundu held various command positions, he served as the commander of the Soroti Air Force wing, where he demonstrated exceptional leadership and operational acumen.

In November 2022, Gen Kigundu was promoted to the rank of Brigadier General and appointed Deputy Chief of the UPDF Air Force.

Last Public Appearance

Gen Kigundu was last seen in public at the 4th Division Headquarters in Gulu on March 28, 2024, during an event in which Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba took over from Gen Wilson Mbadi as the new Chief of Defence Forces.

Promotion and Appointment

President Museveni, who is also the Commander In-Chief of Armed forces, promoted Stephen Kigundu to the rank of Brig Gen from Lt. Col on November 7, 2022, and named him Deputy Commander of Air Forces.

Cause of Death

Brigadier General Stephen Kigundu’s untimely demise was a result of a tragic accident. According to reports, he succumbed to electrocution while bathing at his official residence in Entebbe. It is alleged that a water heater fell on him, resulting in the fatal accident.