A total of 527 soldiers, including 78 from the Central African Republic (CAR), have successfully completed a five-month intensive training program at the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Non-Commissioned Officers Academy (NCOA) in Gaddafi Barracks, Jinja City. The training included the Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (S/NCO) Course and the Instructors Course Level III, both designed to build strong military leadership and teaching skills.
The graduation ceremony was presided over by Brig Gen Wycliffe Keita, UPDF Joint Chief of Staff for Training and Doctrine, who praised the soldiers for their discipline, commitment, and endurance throughout the course. He reminded them that training is not just about physical fitness or following commands — it is a way of life that requires hard work, discipline, and resilience. “You’ve shown these qualities during your time here. Now, go and show them in your units. Your behavior and actions will influence others,” Brig Gen Keita advised.
He also encouraged the soldiers to embrace leadership roles, saying they are now better prepared to guide and inspire others within the military. Brig Gen Keita further spoke about the strong partnership between Uganda and the Central African Republic, especially in the area of regional peace and security. He mentioned the UPDF’s past role in helping combat threats like the Lord’s Resistance Army and said this joint training was a clear example of Pan-African cooperation.
To the CAR soldiers, he gave a special message: “Use the skills you’ve learned here to serve your country and represent the UPDF with honour and pride.”
Brig Gen Michael Ssozi Ssesanga, the Commandant of the NCO Academy, gave a detailed report about the graduating group. He said 378 soldiers, including the 78 from CAR, completed the S/NCO Course, while 179 finished the Instructors Course Level III. These courses, he said, are meant for junior officers who are the foundation and backbone of the army. “Leadership is not easy. It’s a sacrifice, and the UPDF is counting on you to lead and train your peers well,” he stated.
Three outstanding graduates were given special awards for their excellent performance. Cpl Niwagaba Gideon was named best student in the S/NCO course, Pte Were Docus came out on top of the Instructors Course, and Sgt Boka Lawade Silver from CAR was honored as the best allied student.
The graduation ceremony was attended by many senior military officers, including Brig Gen Chris Ogwal, Commandant of the Junior Staff College; Col Katongole, Commandant of the School of Supplies and Transport; and Col Adenan Kaale, Chief Instructor of the Junior Staff College, among others from Gaddafi Barracks.
The event marked not just a celebration of academic success, but also a reminder of the values of unity, discipline, and service that hold the army together. It was a powerful show of regional cooperation and a hopeful sign for continued peace and development in Africa.
