The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has passed out 62 soldiers after completing a Maritime Basic Induction Course aimed at strengthening security on Uganda’s water bodies and enhancing the military’s maritime capabilities.
The soldiers graduated on Thursday at the Maritime Sustainment Base Ntokolo in Magamaga, Mayuge District.
Presiding over the pass-out ceremony, the Joint Staff Training and Doctrine, Brig. Gen. Wycliffe Keita, said the course forms part of the UPDF’s strategy to strengthen operational readiness and improve the protection of Uganda’s territorial waters and critical national infrastructure.
“Marine forces constitute a critical component of Uganda’s defence architecture. Your responsibilities go beyond safeguarding Uganda’s waters to securing vital national assets and infrastructure, while supporting joint land and air operations,” Brig. Gen. Keita said.
He said the training is aligned with the Chief of Defence Forces’ agenda to enhance the professional competence and combat effectiveness of all UPDF units.
Brig. Gen. Keita added that the UPDF will continue investing in its marine capabilities and develop the Maritime Sustainment Base Ntokolo into a long-term logistics, transport and sustainment hub.
Representing the Commander of the 15 Marine Brigade, Deputy Commander Col. Eliason Kugumisiriza said the trainees were drawn from the Mountain Division, the Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security (CDIS), and the 15 Marine Brigade.
He said the course was intended to improve coordination among different UPDF formations and equip soldiers with skills to respond to evolving security threats on Uganda’s water bodies and international borders.
The Commandant of the Maritime Sustainment Base Ntokolo, Maj. Daniel Mwine Kaihura, said the training combined classroom instruction with practical field exercises designed to prepare soldiers for real operational environments.
He urged the graduates to uphold discipline throughout their military careers, saying the UPDF had invested significantly in their training.
During the ceremony, Lt. Keith Rwashande was recognised as the overall best student. Pte. Mungulia Swaibu received the award for best swimmer, Pte. Paul Kiiza was named best in academics, while Pte. Asiimwe Bridget was recognised as the most disciplined trainee.
