President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, Commander-in-Chief of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), today presided over the first-ever hybrid virtual pass-out ceremony for recruits who completed nine months of basic military training across six military schools.
Speaking to attendees at the Basic Military Training School in Kaweweta, Nakaseke District, where the main event was held, President Museveni commended the UPDF for its innovative use of technology. He highlighted that this approach not only demonstrated the spirit of transformation but also helped save time and resources.
The President congratulated the recruits on their achievement and urged them to prioritize physical fitness, discipline, hard work, and teamwork as they embark on their military careers.
“I have been involved in military activities for the last 55 years. You can’t do that if you’re not medically and physically fit. Looking after yourself to remain fit is fair to yourself, to the Army, and your family. This will enable you to serve for a long time,” President Museveni remarked.
He further commended Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), for promoting professionalism within the UPDF, combating corruption, and strengthening combat readiness. The President also applauded the instructors, noting that the exercises and demonstrations on display were testament to the high quality of training delivered.
Speaking during the ceremony, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba lauded the recruits for their patriotic commitment to serve. “It takes serious consideration to choose to serve one’s country and people selflessly, to venture into the unknown where few are willing to tread and to lay down their lives for the benefit of others,” he said.
Gen Muhoozi expressed gratitude to President Museveni for his strategic leadership, particularly in ensuring value for money and curbing the misuse of resources within the UPDF. He highlighted the force’s ongoing efforts to enhance technical proficiency and combat effectiveness. “We are constantly training at all levels, acquiring the equipment we need, and sharpening our lethality. The dangers and threats we face are constantly evolving, and so must we. We must keep pace with modern military technology,” he noted.
Brig Gen Bonny Geoffrey Wolimbwa, Commandant of the Basic Military Training School at Kaweweta, stated that the recruits had been shaped into disciplined and patriotic warriors ready to defend the nation. He thanked the UPDF leadership for their support throughout the training and commended the families of the recruits for their encouragement and resilience.
Brig Gen Wolimbwa urged the graduates to carry forward the discipline instilled in them. “You have been good here in school; this discipline must continue if you are to achieve greater heights,” he emphasised.
The ceremony was attended by the Under Secretary for Finance in the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Mrs Edith Butuuro, Deputy Chief of Defence Forces Lt Gen Sam Okiding, division commanders, generals and senior officers, officials from sister security agencies, religious leaders, government representatives, and local community members.
The virtual pass-out incorporated recruits from five other UPDF training institutions across Uganda: Sera-Kasenyi Special Forces Military Academy, Nakasongola Airborne Training School, Ruhengyere Training School in Mbarara, 3 Infantry Division Training School in Katakwi district, and 5 Infantry Division Training School in Agago district .
Outstanding trainees from all six schools received awards recognising their exceptional performance during the course.
