On Thursday, June 5, 2026, the family of Godwin Aaron Tasike in Buwere village, Buwanyera Ward, Butiru Town Council, Manafwa district, experienced a moment of joy and relief.
The government compensated them for damages caused to their home by a presidential helicopter in December 2024.
Tasike, a 45-year-old grade machine operator for Manafwa district local government and a farmer, expressed his gratitude.
“I’m overjoyed that my plea was heard. I didn’t know how we’d repair our house. God is great,” Tasike said.
His wife, Catherine Tasike, knelt in gratitude, clutching the compensation funds close.
The Special Forces Command (SFC) provided Shs 29,184,000 to refurbish the family’s house, damaged during the helicopter’s landing and takeoff at Butiru Demonstration Primary School on December 17, 2024.
The incident occurred during President Museveni’s zonal tour to assess the Parish Development Model (PDM). Part of the funds will cover temporary accommodation for the family during renovations.
Maj. Newton Isaac Namazima, representing Brig. Gen. Paul Namawa, Chief of Staff-SFC, handed over the funds. He described the compensation as a milestone in strengthening ties between the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and civilians.
“This reflects the UPDF’s commitment to fostering harmony with the public,” Maj. Namazima said, praising Tasike’s patience during the damage assessment.
Maj. Namazima also lauded President Museveni’s guidance in building a professional force and Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Chief of Defence Forces, for promoting a people-centered military.
He thanked the State House Comptroller Jane Barekye for her role in the process. Apologizing for the incident, he reaffirmed SFC’s commitment to integrity and public trust.
Patience Webule, Manafwa’s Resident District Commissioner, expressed gratitude for SFC’s gesture, noting, “This brings great relief and shows your care for our people.”
