The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Marine Brigade has graduated 69 new marines who successfully completed a four-month Marine Basic Induction Course at the Marine Training School in Kalangalo, Wakiso District.
Presiding over the ceremony, Brig Gen Michael Nyarwa, Commander of the Marine Brigade, commended the trainees for their discipline, endurance, and determination. He described their transformation from recruits to professional mariners as a reflection of resilience, teamwork, and commitment to service.
“You came here as trainees and leave as mariners — disciplined, skilled, and prepared to serve your nation,” Brig Gen Nyarwa said. “You have conquered the challenges of swimming and combat water survival, mastered navigation and tactical maneuvers, and demonstrated that persistence and discipline breed success.”
The course, which commenced on June 30, 2025, was designed to equip participants with key maritime competencies such as navigation, communication, small boat operations, tactical engagement, intelligence gathering, first aid, physical fitness, and maritime law.
Brig Gen Nyarwa underscored that beyond technical expertise, integrity and moral character form the cornerstone of the UPDF’s professional values.
“Skill without character is empty,” he cautioned. “Maintain the highest levels of self-discipline and ethical behavior. Honor your uniform, your comrades, and the communities you will serve.”
He applauded the Commandant, Chief Instructor, and staff of the Marine Training School for their dedication to nurturing a capable and professional Marine Force committed to securing Uganda’s territorial waters.
Col David Kararira, Commandant of the Marine Training School, congratulated the graduates on successfully completing the program and lauded the instructors for upholding exceptional training standards despite existing challenges.
“Completing this course marks a new chapter,” Col Kararira said. “Great opportunities await those who remain focused, disciplined, and ambitious.”
He also appreciated the Marine Brigade leadership for its continuous support in enhancing the school’s capacity, recognizing its expanding role as a key institution for maritime training and operations in Uganda.
The graduation ceremony was graced by senior and junior UPDF officers, local leaders, parents, guardians, and members of the surrounding community.
