The Special Forces Command (SFC) has decorated 62 officers following their promotion to new ranks, with commanders urging them to demonstrate greater accountability and professionalism in their expanded roles.
The officers, comprising 15 senior officers and 47 junior officers, received their new ranks during a ceremony at SFC Headquarters in Entebbe presided over by SFC Commander Maj Gen Asaph Mweteise Nyakikuru.
Congratulating the officers, Maj Gen Nyakikuru said promotion brings additional responsibilities and higher expectations.
He urged the newly promoted officers to lead by example, maintain discipline and professionalism, and support the development of junior personnel under their command.
The commander also encouraged the officers to continue improving their knowledge and skills to respond effectively to the changing requirements of military operations.
He said the officers should translate their promotions into improved operational readiness, training, physical fitness and professional competence while maintaining cohesion within their respective formations.
SFC Deputy Commander Brig Gen John Bosco Asinguza similarly reminded the officers that increased authority must be accompanied by accountability.
He encouraged them to exercise their authority with courage, humility, fairness and restraint.
“Your strength will matter a lot, but most importantly, your character upon the rise in the ranks will matter even more,” Asinguza said.
The deputy commander also acknowledged the role played by the officers’ spouses and families, saying their support and sacrifices contribute to the officers’ ability to serve.
Speaking on behalf of the decorated officers, Lt Col Nicholas Kagaba, Commander of the 17th Field Engineers Brigade, thanked the UPDF leadership for recognising their service.
Kagaba pledged the officers’ continued commitment to serving Uganda with loyalty, integrity, discipline and courage.
He urged the newly promoted officers to use their positions to develop their professional capabilities, mentor those under their command and contribute to the effectiveness of the UPDF.
The ceremony was attended by the Director of Human Resource Management, Col Night Ikiriza, who read the citations, alongside SFC group and brigade commanders and their deputies.
Also present were directors, officers, non-commissioned officers and spouses.
