The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), through its Special Forces Command (SFC), has graduated 214 soldiers, including 10 female personnel, following the completion of an intensive Commando Qualification Course at Camp Rufu in Kiruhura District.
The graduation ceremony for Intake 05/25-26 was held at the Special Warfare Centre and School in Ruhengyere and presided over by the SFC Commander, Major General Asaph Mweteise Nyakikuru, who also officially opened Intake 06.
The training is part of the UPDF’s continued efforts to strengthen its specialised military capabilities by developing a disciplined, professional and highly trained force capable of responding to evolving security challenges.
Addressing the graduands, Maj Gen Nyakikuru emphasised the importance of continuous military training in improving operational effectiveness, particularly as modern warfare becomes increasingly complex.
He challenged the newly qualified commandos to apply the knowledge and skills acquired during the course and remain prepared for deployment in different operational environments.
“Continuous training is an arm that moves an army to make operations simple,” he said.
Nyakikuru acknowledged that financial and resource constraints could affect military operations but maintained that investment in specialised training remained essential to addressing emerging security threats.
He described the Commando Qualification Course as a demanding programme that tests soldiers’ physical endurance, strategic thinking and operational capabilities.
The SFC Commander also cautioned the graduates against indiscipline and complacency, urging them to uphold professional standards, respect the chain of command and remain committed to their responsibilities.
“We have trained warriors to finish the enemies of Uganda within and beyond,” he said.
He added that the newly qualified commandos were expected to demonstrate discipline, reliability and professionalism in executing their assignments.
The Commander of the 2 Infantry Division, Major General Paul Muhanguzi, said specialised military training was important in strengthening the UPDF’s ability to protect Uganda’s national interests and safeguard the lives and property of citizens.
Muhanguzi credited President and Commander-in-Chief General (Rtd) Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for providing continued guidance towards military modernisation and professional development.
He said security was closely linked to national development because a peaceful environment enables citizens to engage in productive activities, generate wealth and contribute to government revenue through taxation.
The division commander also urged the graduates to maintain strong relations with the civilian population, describing public support as an important component of military effectiveness.
“There is no force without wanainchi. We recruit from them, serve with them, and when we retire, we go back to live with wanainchi,” he said.
The Group Commander of 2 Special Forces Group, Colonel Jimmy Mukuba Kabila, said the course was designed to equip the soldiers with specialised competencies required to undertake demanding military assignments.
He challenged the graduates to justify the resources invested in their training through hard work, teamwork, sacrifice and dedication to duty.
“The army has invested in you and we expect returns,” Kabila said.
The Commandant of the Special Warfare Centre and School, Major Natal Vuraga Kanzo, commended the UPDF leadership for supporting efforts to develop a modern, professional and people-centred military force.
He encouraged the graduands to remain courageous, resilient and disciplined, particularly when confronted with challenging physical and operational conditions.
Kiruhura District LC V Chairperson Dan Mukago said the establishment of Camp Rufu had contributed to the development of the district, in addition to the UPDF’s role in maintaining peace and security.
Mukago observed that the military training institution had become an important development centre for surrounding communities, with its impact extending beyond military training.
“In fact, Camp Rufu is not only a training school but a development pattern to our district,” he said.
He encouraged the newly qualified commandos to serve Uganda and the international community with loyalty, honour and sacrifice.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of certificates and gifts to the best-performing students in recognition of their achievements across various training disciplines.
The event was attended by UPDF directors of training, senior and junior military officers, Uganda Police Force representatives, instructors and other invited guests.
