The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Uganda Police Force on Monday conducted a joint 25-kilometre route march in Moroto District as part of efforts to strengthen operational readiness, physical fitness and cooperation among security agencies in the Karamoja sub-region.
The exercise brought together personnel from the UPDF 3 Infantry Division and the Uganda Police Force, with commanders saying it was aimed at assessing endurance, discipline, teamwork and preparedness for security operations.
Speaking after the march, Major General Wilberforce Sserunkuma, the Commander of the 3 Infantry Division, said the activity was part of routine training designed to evaluate the health, resilience and readiness of security personnel.
“This route march is not meant to punish you but to keep you physically and mentally fit. It is part of our routine training activities, and I urge you to remain resilient and battle-ready at all times,” Maj Gen Sserunkuma said.
He said the exercise also assessed leadership, team cohesion, equipment readiness and overall operational preparedness.
Maj Gen Sserunkuma commended the Uganda Police Force for participating in the initiative and called for stronger collaboration between security agencies.
“We should develop a culture of conducting joint activities and celebrations as one family with a common mission of safeguarding the region,” he said.
The Deputy Commander of the 3 Infantry Division, Brig Gen Allan Kyangungu, praised participants for completing the march and described the exercise as a reflection of discipline and commitment within the security forces.
“What I witnessed this morning reflects the heartbeat of a resilient, disciplined and battle-ready force. When leaders are fit, their units remain fit. We do not train for comfort; we train for victory,” Brig Gen Kyangungu said.
Karamoja regional police spokesperson Inspector Michael Longole said the route march was important in improving physical fitness and strengthening teamwork among security personnel operating in the region.
The exercise was attended by several military and police commanders, including Col JP Ochen, Commander of the 106 Artillery Brigade; Moroto District Police Commander SP Henry Abaho; Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU) Commandant ACP Francis Chemusto; Deputy ASTU Commandant SSP Ezra Tugume; and Deputy Regional Police Commander for Mt Moroto Region SSP George Obia.
The joint march comes as security agencies continue to promote inter-agency cooperation and maintain readiness to respond to emerging security challenges in Karamoja and neighbouring areas.