Graduation of 413 Army Officers at Uganda Military Academy
A significant milestone was achieved as 413 army officers graduated from an advanced armor military warfare course at the Uganda Military Academy - Kabamba, located in Mubende District. The ceremony marked the culmination of a six-month training program that equipped the graduates with essential skills and knowledge in modern military tactics and operations.
The group of 413 graduates includes 74 armor platoon commanders, 122 armor technicians, and 217 armor crew members. Each individual received comprehensive training in advanced military warfare techniques, focusing on the effective use of armored vehicles and other critical equipment. This training emphasized not only technical proficiency but also strategic thinking and operational readiness.
During the graduation ceremony, President Yoweri Museveni extended his congratulations to the graduates for their successful completion of the rigorous program. He acknowledged their ability to master complex equipment and skills within a short timeframe. "I want to congratulate the graduates for learning quickly in six months where you mastered this equipment of tanks in the four courses that have been mentioned here. I want to congratulate you and pass you out today," he stated.
President Museveni also highlighted the importance of integrating science and art in military operations. He emphasized that while technology plays a crucial role, the organization and utilization of these tools are equally vital. "War is an old science and an old art. Science in the form of equipment and art in the way you are organised and utilise the equipment. Science always influences the organization and the tactics," he explained.
The president urged the officers to remain vigilant against emerging threats to armor defense technologies. He pointed out the increasing capabilities of air forces and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), which pose new challenges to traditional armored units. "The tank has new threats like the air force which has been improving and the UAVs, so we need to understand the packaging of capacity," he said.
In addition to professional development, President Museveni encouraged the graduates to prioritize their health and well-being. He warned them against harmful behaviors such as substance abuse and poor lifestyle choices. "Love yourself so that you don't die of diseases, alcohol or drugs. You should remain healthy but as we told you, you must also love your equipment because if you don't look after it well, especially if you are corrupt, when war comes you will die. When you see a corrupt soldier, he is your enemy and the enemy of the country," he advised.
The president also assured the officers that the modernization of the Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) is ongoing. He praised the leadership for its efforts in professionalizing the force and enhancing welfare, training, and infrastructure. "I'm happy that the CDF is still working on welfare, training, and infrastructure. We have been busy building barracks and other training facilities," he added.
Upgrading Training Facilities to Centers of Excellence
Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, Lt. Gen. Sam Okiding, revealed that the UPDF is accelerating the upgrade of all military training facilities to centers of excellence. Fourteen of these institutions, including the Uganda Military Warfare Academy - Kabamba, have already achieved this status. Lt. Gen. Okiding emphasized the importance of maintaining precision and competence among trainees, urging them to avoid delusive behaviors and lifestyles.
Brig. Gen. Peter Chandia, Commandant of the Armored Warfare Training School - Karama, highlighted the graduates' expertise in mechanized warfare and the fundamentals of firepower mobility. He noted that the graduates are well-prepared to effectively employ mechanized resources in contemporary battle spaces.
At the event, the best-performing students were recognized for their outstanding achievements. Their dedication and performance exemplify the high standards set by the Uganda Military Academy and the broader goals of the UPDF.
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