The newly commissioned Uganda People’s Defense Force (UPDF) cadet officers have been equipped with leadership skills and discipline.
The Minister of Defense and Veteran Affairs, Oboth Oboth said the challenge the officers will face is beyond combat hence the need for additional disciplines.
Oboth represented by the State for Defence, Hon. Sarah Mateke said the training is not only geared towards professionalising the UPDF by equipping young commanders with leadership skills, tactics and discipline but it also resonates with President Museveni’s guidance on the African strategic security, regional security and cooperation as well as Pan-Africanism. “As the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, we are dedicated to this course. Your Excellency, sir, the composition of the Officer Cadet intake as it is drawn from the different African countries and the presence of dignitaries from various nations underscores what you have always emphasized; that modern security and defence challenges are not confined by borders, they therefore require a unified response that transcends national boundaries and fosters international cooperation,” Hon. Mateke said. “Joint trainings promote an understanding and approach to international and cross border security challenges such as terrorism, natural disasters, cyber threats, among others.”The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba said the commissioned officers have been groomed so well and they are future leaders of the army. “I know how hard you have all worked over the past year and I hope you are proud of your achievements,” he said. “This moment marks a significant milestone in your military careers. Having attended and survived a commissioning course like this 25 years ago, I think I have an idea of what you have gone through,” he added. Gen. Muhoozi also reminded the officers that as they step into their roles, they should remember that leadership is not merely a position but a profound responsibility which they must fulfill. He further cautioned the officers against staining their names with evils of corruption, cowardice and treachery. The Commandant of Basic Military Training School- Kaweweta, Brig. Gen. Bonny Geoffrey Wolimbwa said the graduation day marked the end of a sustained period of intense learning in class and field for intake 18- 2023/24.He said the officers were equipped with knowledge and new skills which will serve them well as future military leaders. “The Officer Cadets before us have been sharpened in their minds and their bodies strengthened, both of which are needed for the responsibilities of living in the military.”The ceremony was also attended by Ministers, fraternal visiting delegations from Mali and Tanzania, among others.
