President Yoweri Museveni has praised the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) for their remarkable accomplishments and resilience in safeguarding the nation despite operating with limited resources. The commendation came during the passing out ceremony of 298 Counter Terrorism Warriors Intake 07/23-24 and 58 graduands of Special Tactics who successfullycompleted their 9 months of hectic training at the School of Defence, Intelligence & Security in Migyera, NakasogolaDistrict.
In his keynote address, President Museveni emphasized the strategic importance of having a well-trained and disciplined army that can respond effectively to various security challenges facing Uganda and the region with little resources.
“I want to congratulate the UPDF for knowing how to use the little resources. That army, we were able to build it with very little resources, therefore this culture of we can’tdo this, because we don’t have this is not part of our system and these people are a good example, there is no infrastructure here, but they have produced very good quality people using humble infrastructure”, the president said.
He thanked the UPDF for what her termed “simple living”that has enabled the country to have a strong army with little resources, this in reference to the improvised tentsthe school is using to accommodate its students.
The 356 commandos, who graduated from an intensive training program focused on enhancing their combat readiness and operational effectiveness, are expected to play a pivotal role in supporting national security efforts. President Museveni encouraged them to uphold the core values of the UPDF, which include patriotism, discipline, and professionalism.
“What you have achieved now is the beginning, your life is still ahead, and you can achieve a lot, but you need to guard yourself”, the president concluded.
The ceremony was attended by high-ranking military officials, members of the government, and families of the graduates.
The Minister of State for Defence and veteran Affairs, Hon. Nyirabashitsi Sarah Mateke who represented the Minister of Defence thanked the President for his strategic vision of guaranteed national defence to Ugandans through the continous training of the Army. The minister further urged the graduates to maintain their commitment, and core values of UPDF.
The Commander of the Land Forces Lt Gen Kayanja Muhanga who represented the Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Keinerugaba, commended ministry of defence support towards the trainings. As he congratulated the commados , he cautioned them against indiscipline but become an admirable and formidable Force as the attained skills are just a beginning.
The CDIS-UPDF Maj Gen James Birungyi, advised the graduands to serve with humility and intergrity understanding the nature of the task ahead emphasized that they aren’t trained to collect information but curb insecurities.
The Commandant at the UPDF School of Military Intelligence & Security in Migyera, Nakasongola., Col. James Muhumuza noted that training never ends keep yourselves up-to-date and relevant to dedicated service with integrity. Keep the oath of allegiance and uphold the flag of your country.
The function was crowned by the awarding of gifts in honour and recognition of the following who were the best students.
CT Course
RA /210250 sgt Kahuma Richard overall
RA/248486 pte Omoding James proffessional student
RR/A293243 pte Ataho Dan disciplined student
RA/290391 pte Mpamfa Rachael best female student
SOT Course
RA/296913 pte Aziz Konia best overall student
In attendance were Director General NEC, Heads ISO CMI trainers instructors civilian and religious leaders.
