Military and Police personnel last month started getting a variety of essential goods at a duty free cost, after the establishment of the Armed Forces Shop (Afos). Parliament, late last year, approved the Bill establishing Afos to help families of serving military and Police personnel purchase certain necessities, including basic foodstuff, home appliances and scholastic materials, on duty free terms. Defence and military spokesperson Joseph Nzabamwita said the first outlet was set up in Kanombe Military Camp in August. “We have another one at the Metropolitan Police Headquarters in Muhima, while others are at Mukamira Barracks (Nyabihu District) and Huye town. Two more outlets will soon be opened, including one in Ngoma, within two weeks,” Brig. Gen. Nzabamwita said. “The Afos is having a positive impact on welfare of RDF and National Police members, given affordable products commensurate with their pay compared with the cost of products in commercial businesses.” In August, last year, lawmakers approved that the armed forces shop should have branches across the country. According to the law, to achieve its mission, Afos, among others, is exempted from taxes. Since Afos is financed by the National Budget, it is subject to the scrutiny of Auditor General. Members of the military or Police serving in foreign missions cannot access the facilities, but their families or immediate dependants are able to.
