Museveni Urges Newly 498 Commissioned Officers to Uphold Patriotism and Discipline

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), has officiated at the commissioning ceremony of 498 Officer Cadets of Intake 19/25 at the UPDF Basic Military Training School, Kaweweta.

The ceremony was attended by the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, ambassadors, and military delegations from several African countries.

Of the newly commissioned officers, 328 are from the UPDF, while 100 are from the Central African Republic, 40 from Somalia, 20 from Mali, and 10 from the Tanzania People’s Defence Forces.

In his address, President Museveni congratulated the officer cadets upon completing their course, describing the UPDF as “an army of warriors and heroes.”

“You are joining an army based on the principles of patriotism, Pan-Africanism, discipline, and professionalism,” he said.

The President commended the cadets for their endurance and resilience, citing the 177-kilometre Salim Saleh Walk they undertook during training — retracing the historic route used by the National Resistance Army (NRA) in 1985 during the successful operation on Masindi Barracks.

“That walk symbolizes commitment, sacrifice, and resilience. You are inheriting the spirit of those who never gave up. When we were fighting, we never gave up, and that’s the spirit we expect from you,” he added.

President Museveni reiterated the four pillars guiding the UPDF, patriotism, Pan-Africanism, discipline, and professionalism, urging the officers to uphold them throughout their service.

He also lauded the participation of cadets from other African countries, describing it as proof that Africa can build its own defence capacity through cooperation and shared values.

“I asked one of the visiting cadets what she liked most about Uganda, and she told me ‘akatogo.’ That shows the bonds we are building through cooperation,” he joked.

The President reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure within the Luweero Triangle, noting that several roads in the area have been tarmacked, with the Katugo–Kaweweta road among those earmarked for upgrade.

He also revealed plans to explore the possibility of pumping water from Lake Kyoga to supply surrounding communities and extending electricity from Kaweweta to neighboring areas.

Turning to national security, President Museveni congratulated the UPDF on their recent operations against criminal elements in Kasese District.

“I want to congratulate the CDF and the army for crushing the bad elements in Kasese. They were defeated by just 12 soldiers who managed to overpower them. That comes from confidence and solid training,” he said.

The President concluded by congratulating the newly commissioned officers once again and urging them to uphold the UPDF’s legacy of patriotism, sacrifice, and service to Uganda and Africa.

Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, in his remarks, congratulated the cadets for completing their training and encouraged them to uphold discipline, resilience, and professionalism throughout their military careers.

“Among the commissioned officers are soldiers from Somalia, the Central African Republic, Tanzania, and Mali. This is testimony to the UPDF’s growing contribution to peace and security on the African continent,” he said.

Gen. Muhoozi also briefed the gathering on the current security situation and ongoing political campaigns across the country. He commended the security forces for their vigilance and professionalism in ensuring a peaceful electoral process, while warning political actors against provoking security agencies.

“The security of the country will not be compromised merely because a particular candidate is campaigning. It doesn’t work like that,” he cautioned.

He further revealed that on November 1, 2025, a group of armed individuals attempted to attack security installations in Bundibugyo, Kasese, and Fort Portal, but were swiftly repulsed by the UPDF and Police.

“Two attackers were put out of action. We thank the residents of Kasese, Bundibugyo, and Fort Portal for rallying behind the security forces. As the ancient Romans said, those who desire peace must prepare for war,” Gen. Muhoozi noted.

The Commandant of the Kaweweta Training School, Brig. Gen. Otongo John Patrick, congratulated the 498 officer cadets, including 61 females, upon completing their course.

He emphasized that the training not only equipped them with military skills but also instilled values of teamwork, resilience, and professionalism essential for modern warfare.

“Today’s event is more than just a commissioning ceremony, it is a demonstration of the quality and professionalism that define the UPDF,” Brig. Gen. Otongo said.

He thanked the UPDF leadership, the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, and all facilitators for their continued guidance and support in the professionalization of the force.