Benon Biraaro (1958–2020)

Early life and education

Biraaro was born in Isingiro District in southwest Uganda. He undertook higher education at Makerere University in Kampala and later pursued further studies in the United Kingdom at Cranfield University. His education combined civilian university training and professional military development, a background that prepared him for senior command and staff roles.

Military career

During his service with the UPDF, Biraaro rose to become a high-ranking commander and an instructor of senior officers. As commandant of the Uganda Senior Command and Staff College in Kimaka, Jinja, he led an institution responsible for advanced training of mid- and senior-level officers, focusing on staff duties, operational planning and leadership for the defence force.

Political involvement

In 2016 Biraaro transitioned from military service to electoral politics by contesting the Ugandan presidency under the banner of the Farmers' Party. His candidacy placed him among a field of challengers in a political environment dominated by long-serving incumbency. While he did not win the election, his campaign drew attention to the participation of retired or serving military figures in civilian politics.

Legacy and death

Biraaro died in Kampala on 12 February 2020 at the age of 61 from colon cancer. He is remembered in Uganda for his role in officer education and for his brief but notable participation in national politics. His career illustrates the close links between military leadership and public life in many countries where senior officers move into political or civic roles after or alongside service.

Selected positions

• Senior commander in the Uganda People's Defence Force (UPDF)
• Commandant, Uganda Senior Command and Staff College, Kimaka, Jinja
• 2016 presidential candidate for the Farmers' Party