The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) 4 Infantry Division has successfully conducted a 30-kilometre route march across parts of the Acholi Sub-region as part of preparations for the forthcoming 45th Tarehe Sita Anniversary celebrations.
The route march, carried out under the directive of UPDF leadership, aimed to sustain high levels of combat readiness across the force. The exercise assessed troops’ physical fitness, individual stamina, teamwork, and overall preparedness for future operations.
Code-named Exercise KIFUA KIPESI—a Swahili phrase meaning “light chest”—the march brought together personnel from the 4 Infantry Division Headquarters and its affiliated brigades.
Addressing troops at the Division Headquarters after the exercise, the 4 Infantry Division Commander, Maj Gen Felix Busizoori, underscored the importance of rigorous training in building a professional and mission-ready force.
“Military success, both at home and in international peacekeeping missions, relies heavily on discipline. Rigorous training exercises and ideological orientation reinforce discipline, integrity, and professionalism. Continuous preparation ensures effective command and control, particularly for infantry forces,” Busizoori said.
He noted that beyond enhancing physical conditioning, the route march fostered teamwork, unity, endurance, and collective resilience among the troops.
In a related development, Busizoori announced that the UPDF, in collaboration with the Uganda Police Force, Uganda Prisons Service, local leaders, and members of the public, has planned community clean-up activities in selected areas on Monday, 15 December 2025, as part of the broader Tarehe Sita commemorations.
While the Kigezi Sub-region has been designated as the national host for this year’s celebrations, other UPDF formations across the country are participating in commemorative activities within their respective areas of responsibility.
Busizoori emphasized that such joint initiatives strengthen civil-military relations and enhance cooperation between security forces and civilian authorities. He also appealed to Ugandans to remain calm and maintain peace, as security stakeholders continue to address insecurity-related concerns, particularly ahead of the festive season and the forthcoming election period.
The event was attended by the Division Deputy Commander, Brig Gen Paul Muwonge; brigade commanders; heads of departments; and officers and men of the 4 Infantry Division.