175 UPDF non-commissioned officers complete ideological training

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The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has passed out 175 officers who successfully completed a non-commissioned leadership and ideology course at Moroto Barracks.

The ceremony was presided over by Maj. Gen. George Wilberforce Sserunkuma, the 3rd Infantry Division Commander.

Presenting the graduates, division training officer Col Santorin Tumuranzye said the officers received intensive training in tactical and selective shooting, combined arms handling, including assault drills, and other range and field activities.

Maj. Gen. Wilberforce Sserukuma hands over a certificate to the best female officer, Precious Birungi, during the pass-out of nine commissioned officers at Moroto barracks, April 6, 2026. (Photo by Olandason Wanyama)

He said 175 officers completed the course out of 211 who enrolled earlier this year. However, 35 dropped out of the rigorous training, and one died during the course.

“We are hunting for those deserters to ensure they appear before the army disciplinary units for possible corrective measures, and later on, enrol in the course again.

Speaking at the event held at the Tactical Headquarters Square on April 6, 2026, Sserunkuma commended the officers for their commitment, noting that completing the course reflects hard work, discipline, and readiness to serve the country.

“As non-commissioned officers, you are the backbone of the UPDF,” he noted, adding that they form a vital link between commanders and soldiers on the ground.

Sserunkuma said the course comes at a critical time for the Karamoja sub-region, where the government has made progress in restoring peace, stability, and removing illegal firearms.

He urged the officers to act as ambassadors of peace and professionalism, and to build trust with local communities.

“Work with community leaders, respect cultural values,” Sserunkuma said, adding that the UPDF is not just a security force but also a partner in development and stability.

He also advised the officers to remain ideologically grounded to avoid being influenced by misinformation, indiscipline, or personal interests.

“A soldier with strong ideological clarity will always act in the best interest of the nation,” Sserunkuma stated, adding that leadership is not only about issuing orders but also responsibility, accountability, and influence.

He thanked the instructors for their dedication in equipping the officers with skills that will shape the future of the UPDF.

To the graduates, Maj. Gen. Sserunkuma congratulated them and urged them to apply what they have learned as they return to their respective units.

"I would like to remind you that the defence of the nation is a blessed duty,” he said, urging them to serve with honour, remain vigilant, and always place the Pearl of Africa first, before declaring the NCOs leadership and ideology course intake closed.

Justine Tuko, the Moroto district deputy resident district commissioner, congratulated both the officers and UPDF leadership for the training.

He said the UPDF is now an admired force that many people aspire to join, adding that the African continent has come to recognise its strength.

Tuko noted that Karamoja provides a challenging environment that helps to harden soldiers due to its terrain. However, he expressed concern over negative attitudes among locals towards the UPDF, noting that few youths from the region enlist each year.

"In last year's recruitment, we got 48 slots, but filling them was not easy,” Tuko said.

The 3rd Division deputy commander Brig. Allan Kyangungu expressed satisfaction with the progress made during the training.

"I could not imagine we would reach this level,” he stated.

Kyangungu also commended the officers for their role in rescue efforts following recent landslides in Kapchorwa.

However, despite some shortfalls, we have been able to sail through the hurdles.

At the end of the training, several soldiers received certificates for excellence in drill, range performance, best female trainee, and overall performance during the three-month course. Other activities held to mark the pass-out included football, volleyball, and long and short relays.

Meanwhile, heavy rain that lasted several hours disrupted some of the planned activities at the Moroto Barracks square.