President Museveni has commissioned 498 officer cadets at the Basic Military Training School in Kaweweta, Nakaseke District, in a ceremony that included both Ugandan and allied African cadets.
The commissioning underscores the UPDF’s focus on professionalism, regional cooperation, and building a capable, disciplined force.
Among the newly commissioned officers are 328 Ugandans and 170 cadets from partner African nations: 10 from Tanzania, 40 from Somalia, 100 from the Central African Republic, and 20 from Mali.
In his address, Museveni, also the Commander-in-Chief of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), congratulated the cadets for completing their training and reminded them that they were joining an institution founded on sacrifice, discipline, and national service.
He emphasized the army’s core values of patriotism, Pan-Africanism, discipline, professionalism, and physical fitness.
“If you don’t have health, you cannot manage the army work as required,” Museveni said, citing the historic 170-kilometre Salim Saleh Track as an enduring symbol of the UPDF’s resilience.
He also addressed recent security incidents in the Rwenzori sub-region, praising the UPDF for decisive action against criminals in Kasese, Bundibugyo, and Fort Portal.
Museveni welcomed the participation of officer cadets from allied African countries, highlighting the importance of Pan-African solidarity and self-reliance in building strong continental defence forces.
Chief of Defence Forces General Muhoozi Kainerugaba described the ceremony as a milestone in UPDF training capacity, noting that this was the second commissioning in a month.
He also commended the public and security forces for maintaining peace during the ongoing political campaigns, while warning candidates against flouting electoral guidelines.
“The security of the country will not be compromised merely because a particular candidate is campaigning,” Muhoozi said, urging continued vigilance and preparedness.
Brigadier General John Patrick Otongo, Commandant of the Basic Military Training School, described the ceremony as the culmination of 36 weeks of intensive training, which instilled teamwork, leadership, and patriotism in the cadets.
Outstanding performers were recognised, including Okuma John Francis as Best Overall Cadet, Sharon Muduwa as Best in Field, Bengana Benon as Best in Class, and Fillawhin Mahfoudh as Best Fraternal Cadet.
The ceremony was attended by senior government and military officials, including the Somali Ambassador to Uganda, Lt Gen Charles Okidi, Lt Gen Jack Bakasumba, division commanders, and commandants of UPDF training schools.
The commissioning of these 498 cadets marks a key milestone in the UPDF’s drive to build a modern, professional, and Pan-Africanist army committed to discipline, loyalty, and service to the people.
