THE Ministry of Defence and National Service has proposed key amendments to the 1966 Pension and Gratuity Act, aiming to include provisions for veterans who fought during the Kagera War.

Additionally, the ministry has recommended that Kagera War veterans be considered for inclusion in the national health insurance scheme. Defence and National Service minister, Dr Stergomena Tax unveiled in the National Assembly yesterday while responding to a question from Special Seats MP, Rose Tweve (CCM), regarding the government's plans for compensating Kagera and Uganda war veterans.

In her response, Dr Tax confirmed that all eligible veterans who fought in the Kagera War had received their pension and gratuity payments, with some still receiving ongoing payments, including those for disability and retirement benefits. 

She added that veterans who participated in the war but were not employed in security services were given the opportunity to join the services after the war, following the required procedures.

“For those who chose not to join or did not meet the qualifications, they were compensated with a payment of 5,000/- and sent back home,” she explained.

Dr Tax also highlighted the challenges the ministry is facing with respect to Kagera War veterans, including demands for all veterans to be included in the pension register, even if they do not meet the legal criteria. 

Other concerns raised by veterans include the low amounts of pension payments and requests for health insurance coverage. To address these concerns, the ministry has developed proposals for amendments to the existing pension law, aimed at improving the benefits for Kagera War veterans.