UPDF Peacekeeping Success Attributed to Professionalism and Trust in Leadership – Brig Gen Nyakikuru

The Deputy Commander of the Special Forces Command (DCSFC), Brig Gen Asaph Mweteise Nyakikuru, has credited the exceptional performance of Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) peacekeeping troops in Somalia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and South Sudan to their professionalism and the unwavering trust they have in the Commander-In-Chief, H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, and the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba.

Speaking on Friday, April 18, 2025, at the SFC headquarters in Entebbe during the piping and decoration ceremony for over 40 newly promoted SFC officers, Brig Gen Nyakikuru emphasised the importance of trust and visionary leadership.

“Promotions are a hallmark of a vibrant and functional army under the visionary leadership of the Commander-In-Chief and the passionate stewardship of our CDF,” he stated.

Representing the Commander of the SFC, Brig Gen Nyakikuru noted that the UPDF is currently conducting a range of refresher, professional, and leadership courses. These include the Senior Command and Staff Course in Kimaka, the Junior Command and Staff Course in Jinja, and the Company Commanders’ Course held at various army academies across the country.

He emphasised that the selection of officers for these courses is merit-based. “Officers are chosen not because of who they know, but because of their competence and potential,” he said.

Brig Gen Nyakikuru extended his gratitude to Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba for revitalising the UPDF. “We are not where we used to be. There is a clear transformation from where we stood in the year 2000,” he remarked.

He also praised President Museveni for moulding the UPDF into a motivated, professional force and reaffirmed the CDF’s commitment to eliminating corruption within the military.

“When you visit our troops on the frontlines or at various stations, they are motivated. Their welfare is now prioritised because corruption is being tackled head-on,” he explained.

He concluded by highlighting the importance of promotions in the military, describing them as powerful tools for motivation that come with added responsibilities and the opportunity for career growth.

During the same event, the Chief of Staff of the SFC, Brig Gen Paul Namawa, urged the newly promoted officers to view their achievement not just as a personal milestone, but as a reflection of the progress made by the UPDF and the guidance of its strategic leadership. “We are here to celebrate how far Uganda and the UPDF have come. We must continue the revolution and fulfil the mission started by those who came before us,” Brig Gen Namawa said.

He also expressed gratitude to President Museveni and Gen Kainerugaba for their leadership, calling on all officers to remain firm and consistent in their duties.

Speaking on behalf of the newly decorated officers, Lt Col Sam Kabwera, the senior-most among them, expressed profound gratitude to the President, the CDF, the Commander of the SFC, Maj Gen David Mugisha, and the entire SFC leadership for their confidence and support.

“We are grateful to our leaders, fellow officers, and commanders in SFC for their dedication and unwavering commitment. As we wear these new ranks, we fully recognise the responsibilities they carry. We pledge to lead with integrity and serve our country with honour,” Lt Col Kabwera stated.

The ceremony followed the March 7, 2025, announcement by President Museveni approving the promotion of 500 UPDF officers. Among them were 46 SFC officers, including 18 Lieutenant Colonels, 4 Majors, 10 Captains, and 14 Second Lieutenants. The decorations were officiated by Col John Mango, Director of Human Resource Management at SFC.