On October 4, 2025, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, Commander-in-Chief of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), marked a significant milestone as he commissioned 352 officer cadets at the Uganda Military Academy in Kabamba, Mubende District. These young officers had successfully completed their rigorous training programs, with the group consisting of 105 cadets from the Bachelor of Defence Studies Course, 218 professional cadets, 11 cadets trained abroad, and 18 pilot cadets. The ceremony also saw the inclusion of 22 officers from allied defense forces, including Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, South Sudan, and the Central African Republic.
President Museveni congratulated the newly commissioned officers, acknowledging their commitment and dedication. He took the opportunity to remind them of the importance of good health, discipline, and ideological clarity, essential pillars for their successful military careers. “Health is crucial; without it, nothing else matters,” he stressed, advising them to avoid behaviors that could compromise their well-being.
Discipline and Unity: The Backbone of Effective Military Service
The President further emphasized discipline as a cornerstone of military success. He noted that the UPDF, like any well-functioning military force, thrives on teamwork. “You cannot be a soldier if you are not disciplined,” Museveni remarked, highlighting that soldiers must operate as a unified force, whether in a section, a platoon, or a battalion. The value of unity and order within the military was a theme throughout his address.
He also reminded the officers of the importance of understanding and embracing the principles that define Uganda’s military ideology: patriotism, Pan-Africanism, socio-transformation, and democracy. President Museveni pointed out that military personnel must transcend colonial mentalities that undermine their self-worth and their country’s progress. “You cannot be an army of Uganda if you carry a colonial mindset,” he warned, urging the officers to be proud of their identity and to place the collective good above individual ambitions.
Shaping Africa’s Security Future
President Museveni’s message took on a continental dimension when he addressed the evolving nature of global and African security. He urged the officers to deepen their understanding of modern warfare, which now spans land, air, sea, and space. “In war, you must know how to achieve tactical superiority within strategic inferiority,” he said, underscoring that military victories are not won solely by bravery, but by strategic intelligence and preparation.
He also highlighted the need for African countries to collaborate in securing the future of the continent. “We have all the resources; what is lacking is knowledge and coordination,” Museveni said, expressing his satisfaction at seeing military officers from various African nations sharing a platform at the event. He reiterated that securing Africa’s future is a collective responsibility, urging nations to work together and strengthen their security forces.
A Vision of Strength and Unity
The Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Hon. Jacob Oboth Oboth, expressed his gratitude towards President Museveni for his visionary leadership, which has provided Uganda with a strong, stable military force. He emphasized the importance of preserving the peace and stability that the country has enjoyed under the current leadership, noting that the benefits of this peace are felt by every Ugandan household.
In his speech, Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, acknowledged the transformation of the UPDF under President Museveni’s guidance. “The UPDF has become the biggest force in the country’s socio-economic transformation,” he stated, reflecting on how the army has been a force for good in Uganda and the wider region. Gen. Muhoozi commended the cadets for their courage and commitment, describing soldiering as “the highest vocation in human experience.”
He also reminded the officers that while commissioning marks the end of their training, it is just the beginning of a long journey. “There is a lot more training to come,” he assured the cadets, stressing the importance of continued learning and development in the military. He praised the young officers for their potential, saying, “You represent institutional renewal, and we will sharpen you until you are the best warriors and commanders.”
Looking to the Future: A Stronger UPDF
Gen. Muhoozi also touched on the improvements in the welfare of UPDF personnel, mentioning better remuneration, improved housing, and better access to education, healthcare, and transport. These improvements, he noted, were crucial in ensuring the well-being and effectiveness of the officers and their ability to carry out their duties.
On the issue of corruption, Gen. Muhoozi made it clear that the UPDF will not tolerate any abuse of resources meant to improve the conditions of soldiers. “We do not tolerate wastage or misuse of our limited resources,” he emphasized, making it clear that there would be swift action against any officers who misuse funds or resources.
Acknowledging the Support System
The Commandant of the Uganda Military Academy, Brig Gen. Saad Katemba, also praised the officer cadets for their resilience and dedication throughout their training. He expressed gratitude to the families and loved ones who supported the cadets throughout their journey, as well as the academic institutions like Makerere University for their contributions to the training program.
As the ceremony concluded, there was a shared sense of pride and optimism for the future. The 352 newly commissioned officers represent a new generation of leaders who are ready to tackle the challenges of modern warfare, contribute to the security of their nations, and play a vital role in the broader African security landscape. With the leadership of President Museveni and the continued commitment of the UPDF, Uganda’s military is poised to remain a force for good, not only within the country but across the continent.
