KATAKWI: The Vice President, Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo, has hailed President Yoweri Museveni for his capable leadership and tireless efforts that have transformed the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) into a modern and professional army.
“I would like to extend my appreciation to President Museveni, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces, for fully professionalizing Uganda’s security services, which include the UPDF, Police Force, Uganda Prisons Service, among others,” Alupo said.
She made the remarks during a farewell ceremony for over 500 UPDF officers who have completed an eight-month training program at the School of Artillery and Air Defence in Olilim, Katakwi District, Eastern Uganda, today—August 7, 2025.
Training in artillery and air defence involves developing specialized skills to operate and maintain weapon systems, detect and track targets, and engage threats in both ground and aerial environments. This training is crucial for protecting military units and critical installations from air attacks.
The Vice President also thanked President Museveni for establishing various military training institutions across the country. She emphasized key characteristics of a professional army, including teamwork, adherence to the Constitution and the UPDF Act, patriotism (ideological clarity), and ongoing training.
“Today, when you meet teams from air defence, artillery, infantry, military intelligence, and the marines, they all consider themselves as one strong unit. They understand that their roles and responsibilities are interconnected,” she said.
She urged the trainees to uphold the spirit of teamwork in their respective units, noting that although they serve in different specialties, each role is equally important.
“Continuous training is not a punishment, but a discipline in itself. It helps you stand out and enables you to execute your duties with competence and accuracy,” she added.
The Vice President who also serves as the Woman MP for Katakwi District and the NRM flag bearer in the forthcoming general elections urged the officers to remain patriotic, with clear ideological clarity, which she described as a defining feature of a professional army.
