President Museveni has called on newly graduated UPDF soldiers to prioritize working closely with intelligence agencies and the police to curb vandalism, especially the destruction of critical infrastructure.
Speaking during a historic hybrid pass-out ceremony at the Basic Military Training School in Kaweweta, where 10,007 soldiers officially joined the ranks of the UPDF, President Museveni emphasized that protecting national infrastructure is now a frontline duty for the new recruits.
“You must sit, coordinate, and eradicate vandalism,” President Museveni charged the graduates, noting that theft and destruction of electrical installations and other vital infrastructure posed a serious threat to Uganda’s economic growth and development.
The President stressed that maintaining internal security required vigilance beyond traditional combat duties. He warned that allowing vandals to sabotage key installations would undermine the nation’s progress and stability.
This year’s pass-out was groundbreaking: for the first time, soldiers from various UPDF training centers across the country participated through a hybrid virtual platform.
Recruits hailed from institutions including Kaweweta Military Training School, Airborne Training School, Amilcar Cabral Training Wing (SFC) Nakasongola, and others.
President Museveni praised the technological innovation of the hybrid event, saying it reflected the UPDF’s growing spirit of modernization and transformation.
He commended the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, and the army leadership for fostering professionalism, fighting corruption, and investing in technology.
“An army must be lethal sharp, not blunt,” Museveni said, urging the recruits to keep pace with technological and organizational advancements to safeguard national security.
Beyond celebrating the successful completion of their training, Museveni’s message to the soldiers carried a sober reminder: their military careers have only just begun, and discipline, health, and patriotism would be critical for their success.
“You must look after yourselves and stay medically fit. It’s fair for you, for the army, and for your families,” he advised.
Meanwhile, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba echoed the President’s sentiments, urging the recruits to uphold the values of patriotism, discipline, and selfless service. He described the ceremony as historic not just for its large turnout, but for demonstrating the UPDF’s commitment to innovation and national inclusivity.
“These men and women, drawn from all districts and regions of Uganda, have undergone thorough training. UPDF must have a national character, and today’s recruits represent that vision,” Gen. Muhoozi said.
Brig. Gen. Bonny Wolimbwa, Commandant of the Basic Military Training School – Kaweweta, praised the new soldiers for their resilience over the intensive nine-month training, transforming them from civilians into disciplined warriors.
As the soldiers took their oath of allegiance, the call was clear: they are now guardians of the nation’s peace, its people, and its future not only on the battlefield, but also on the home front, where the fight against vandalism and sabotage is just as critical.
