In a powerful show of discipline and coordination, the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) held its first-ever CDF Inter-Forces Drill Competition on Tuesday at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds but beyond the synchronized movements and parade precision, the spotlight shone brightest on the CDF’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of Uganda’s men and women in uniform.
While the event celebrated military tradition and professional excellence, Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba used the occasion to send a clear message that the UPDF’s strength must be matched by the quality of life of its soldiers and their families.
“The competition is the first of its kind in the history of the UPDF. You all did well. Thank you for your effort and a job well done. Keep it up,” said Gen Kainerugaba as he applauded the stellar performances.
The CDF reiterated his pledge to improve soldier welfare, focusing on tangible areas like better housing, accessible healthcare, efficient transportation, strengthened logistics, and quality education for soldiers’ children.
His remarks pointed to a future where the well-being of service members is treated with the same seriousness as battlefield readiness.
“Military parades represent the coordination essential in the military across different services, formations, and units,” he noted, adding that the unity and teamwork on display were symbolic of a wider transformation underway in the UPDF. “This marked the beginning of a new era where the UPDF will strive for excellence in all fields without exception.”
Gen Kainerugaba expressed deep appreciation to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the Commander-in-Chief, for his visionary leadership, which he credited for the resilience and success of the UPDF.
The event, attended by Cabinet Ministers and senior military leaders, also served as a platform for other high-ranking officers to echo support for the welfare agenda.
Deputy Chief of Defence Forces Lt Gen Sam Okiding, who chaired the competition’s steering committee, affirmed the force’s readiness to grow under Gen Kainerugaba’s inclusive leadership.
“He has always taught us to add value wherever we are, and that is why we are here today,” said Lt Gen Okiding. He hailed the CDF’s approach to leadership marked by “humility, openness, and teamwork” and reaffirmed the UPDF’s capability to defend the nation with values rooted in discipline and faith.
Lt Gen (Rtd) Nakibus Lakara described the drill contest as a visionary initiative, not just for its impact on military efficiency but for its role in building unity and fostering cross-branch cooperation.
He called it a strategic tool that will ultimately serve the broader goal of national security.
Brig Gen Wycliffe Keita, who led the competition’s implementation, declared the event a resounding success. “
All 16 participating teams exhibited top-notch discipline, skill, and complete mastery of foot and arms drills,” he said, highlighting the professionalism cultivated within the ranks.
The competition brought together the Air Force, Special Forces Command, Infantry Divisions One through Five, Mountain Division, Artillery Division, and ISO.
Teams competed in foot drills, crop stick drills, cane stick drills, and synchronized marching, with eight units advancing to the finals.
