Museveni Commissions 498 New Officer Cadets Amid UPDF’s Growing Continental Role

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

The ceremony was attended by the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, ambassadors, and military delegations from several African countries. Of the 498 new officers, 328 were from the UPDF, 100 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 graduates for completing their training and joining what he described 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 commitment, citing the 177-kilometre “Salim Saleh Walk” they undertook during training — retracing the 1985 route used by the National Resistance Army during the operation on Masindi Barracks. “That walk symbolises commitment, sacrifice, and resilience. You are inheriting the spirit of those who never gave up,” he said.

Museveni urged the newly commissioned officers to embody the UPDF’s four guiding principles — patriotism, Pan-Africanism, discipline, and professionalism — throughout their service.

“You are joining an army that stands for love of country, love of Africa, and service to the people with dignity. Be disciplined and physically prepared to defend your country,” he said.

The President lauded the participation of cadets from other African nations, saying their inclusion reflected Africa’s growing capacity to solve its own security challenges. He recounted a light-hearted exchange with a visiting cadet who said her favourite thing about Uganda was “akatogo,” calling it a symbol of the friendships forged through regional cooperation.

Infrastructure and Development Commitments

President Museveni reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure in the Luweero Triangle and neighbouring districts. He revealed that several roads in the area had already been tarmacked and confirmed that the Katugo–Kaweweta road was among those earmarked for upgrading.

On water and electricity, he said the government was exploring the possibility of pumping water from Lake Kyoga to nearby communities, noting that Nakaseke’s flat terrain made the project feasible. He also pledged to extend electricity beyond Kaweweta to the surrounding areas.

The President commended the UPDF for its recent successful operations in Kasese, where a small detachment of 12 soldiers neutralised criminal elements attempting to destabilise the region. “That comes from confidence and solid training,” he said.

UPDF’S CONTINENTAL ROLE GROWING

In his remarks, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba congratulated the cadets upon their commissioning and urged them to uphold the values of discipline, resilience, and professionalism.

“Your Excellency, we thank you for championing the spirit of African unity and for your sacrifice to make Africa strong. The participation of cadets from Somalia, the Central African Republic, Tanzania, and Mali demonstrates the UPDF’s growing continental role,” he said.

He also updated the gathering on the security situation and the ongoing peaceful electoral campaigns, commending the vigilance and professionalism of the country’s security forces.

“The campaigns are progressing well, and we thank the security forces for ensuring a peaceful process. We also commend citizens for respecting Electoral Commission guidelines,” he said, cautioning political candidates against provoking security officers.

Gen Muhoozi also reported on a recent attempted attack on security installations in Bundibugyo, Kasese, and Fort Portal on November 1, 2025, in which the attackers were swiftly neutralised.

“Confused elements armed mainly with machetes attempted to attack security posts. They were promptly repulsed by the UPDF and the Police. Two attackers were put out of action,” he said, adding that residents supported the forces in maintaining peace.

TRAINING EXCELLENCE

The Commandant of Kaweweta Training School, Brig Gen Otongo John Patrick, congratulated the 498 officer cadets, including 61 women, upon completing their training. He said the course equipped them not only with military tactics but also with teamwork, resilience, and leadership skills vital for modern warfare.

“Today’s commissioning ceremony is a reflection of the professionalism and quality that define the UPDF. The discipline and skills you have acquired will serve you and your countries well,” Brig Gen Otongo said.

He thanked the UPDF leadership, the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, and international partners for their continued support in strengthening the professional capacity of the force.