The Commander of the Three Special Forces Group, Col Wilson Bagonza, has praised President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni—also the Commander-in-Chief of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF)—for his steadfast support in training and equipping the army.
Col Bagonza said the President’s commitment has been vital in boosting the UPDF’s operational readiness and overall effectiveness.
He made these remarks on Monday, June 23, 2025, during the official opening of the 3rd edition of the annual Special Forces Command (SFC) inter-unit rifle competition at Fort Samora Machel Special Forces Training School in Kaweweta, Nakaseke District. He represented the Commander of the SFC, Maj Gen David Mugisha.
“I want to thank our Commander-in-Chief, Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. He is the driving force behind our efforts. His involvement and support in enhancing our training and equipment are unmatched,” said Col Bagonza. “I also commend the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, for his remarkable efforts in professionalising not just the SFC, but the entire UPDF.”
He noted that continued investment in capacity building has significantly improved the UPDF’s professionalism, discipline, and combat preparedness. He encouraged participants to take the competition seriously as a platform for sharpening their skills.
“You may not be the best today, but you’ve been chosen to represent the best. Carry that name with pride, defend it, and strive for excellence,” he said.
The 2025 SFC inter-unit rifle competition brings together 11 teams drawn from the four major formations: Headquarters Group, One Special Forces Group, Two Special Forces Group, and Three Special Forces Group. Events include the Strongest Special Challenge, Long-Range Rifle Challenge, Pistol Challenge, Hostage Rescue Challenge, and Direct Action drills. The final day will feature demonstrations of hostage rescue, direct action, and shooting exercises involving falling plates and targets.
Col Bagonza reminded the participants to uphold camaraderie and integrity throughout the competition. “Remember, you’re not competing against enemies but comrades. Look out for one another, remain disciplined, train hard, and compete with confidence. Let the spirit of brotherhood guide you,” he urged.
The Commandant of Fort Samora Machel Special Forces Training School, Lt Col Beyendera Edison, emphasised that the competition is more than a test of marksmanship—it is a celebration of discipline, precision, and the unwavering commitment that defines the SFC.
“This competition strengthens unity, encourages healthy rivalry, and promotes sharing best practices that enhance our operational capabilities. Let us compete with courage, respect, and true sportsmanship,” he said. “Excellence is not a destination—it’s a continuous journey that we pursue with pride and dedication.”
Col Paul Lokut, Director of Training and Doctrine for SFC, described the competition as a showcase of Special Forces capabilities, aligned with global standards. “The scenarios featured in this competition—direct action, hostage rescue, and unconventional warfare—reflect common tasks performed by Special Forces worldwide. Embrace these challenges; this is our mission and our purpose,” he said.
He also called on all participants to maintain discipline and make their commanders proud. Senior officers, including commanding officers, training and operations staff, training school commandants, and other SFC officers, attended the ceremony.
