The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Marine Brigade has proudly passed out 69 new marines who successfully completed a four-month Marine Basic Induction Course at the Marine Training School in Kalangalo, Wakiso District. The ceremony, held on November 3, 2025, marked the official end of an intense journey that transformed recruits into professional and disciplined mariners ready to serve their country.
Presiding over the event, Brigadier General Michael Nyarwa, the Commander of the Marine Brigade, praised the graduates for their determination, endurance, and teamwork. He commended their ability to adapt and overcome the demanding conditions of marine training, which included swimming, combat water survival, navigation, communication, and tactics. “You arrived as trainees; you leave as mariners—disciplined, skilled, and ready to serve,” Brig Gen Nyarwa said proudly.
The course, which began on June 30, 2025, aimed to equip the trainees with vital maritime skills. It covered areas such as small boat handling, intelligence, first aid, physical fitness, and maritime law. Brig Gen Nyarwa reminded the graduates that while technical skills are important, integrity and character remain the true foundation of the UPDF’s professional spirit. “Skill without character is a hollow vessel,” he cautioned. “Always uphold discipline, respect your uniform, and serve the communities with honour.”
Col David Kararira, the Commandant of the Marine Training School, also congratulated the graduates and praised the instructors for maintaining high training standards despite challenges. He encouraged the new mariners to remain focused and disciplined as they embark on their careers. “Finishing this course is a new beginning,” he said. “Opportunities await those who continue to grow and serve with purpose.”
The pass-out ceremony was graced by senior and junior UPDF officers, parents, guardians, and members of the local community, who celebrated the achievements of the graduates. The Marine Brigade continues to play a vital role in safeguarding Uganda’s waters and building a professional maritime force. The successful completion of this course demonstrates the UPDF’s strong commitment to training, discipline, and excellence in service to the nation.
