President Museveni commissions 498 officer cadets at Kaweweta

NAKASEKE - President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who is the Commander-in-Chief of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), on Friday (November 7) officiated at the commissioning ceremony of 498 officer cadets in Nakaseke district.

This was Intake 19/25 at the UPDF Basic Military Training School, Kaweweta.

The commissioning ceremony was attended by the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, as well as ambassadors and military delegations from fraternal African countries.

“That walk symbolizes commitment, sacrifice, and resilience. You are inheriting the spirit of those who never gave up," said Museveni.

The newly commissioned officers included 100 from the Central African Republic, 20 from Mali, 40 from Somalia, 10 from the Tanzania People’s Defence Forces, and 328 from the UPDF.

“I congratulate the newly commissioned officer cadets...You are joining an army of warriors and heroes — an army based on the principles of patriotism, Pan-Africanism, discipline, and professionalism,” said the President in his address.

Their training featured the 177-kilometre Salim Saleh Walk, which retraces the historical route used by the National Resistance Army (NRA) in 1985 during the successful operation on Masindi Barracks.

On his part, CDF Kainerugaba urged the newly commissioned officer cadets to uphold discipline, resilience, and professionalism throughout their careers.

“That walk symbolizes commitment, sacrifice, and resilience. You are inheriting the spirit of those who never gave up," said Museveni.

He said patriotism, Pan-Africanism, discipline, and professionalism are the four pillars that guide the UPDF.

“You are being commissioned into an army of warriors that stands for love of country, love of Africa, and service to the people with dignity. Be disciplined and physically ready to defend your country."

The President lauded the collaboration between Uganda and other African countries represented in the training, describing it as proof that Africa has the capacity to manage its own affairs.

He said one of the visiting cadets told him the one she likes most about Uganda is katogo, a Ugandan cuisine featuring matooke that is typically eaten for breakfast.

Museveni also reaffirmed the government's commitment to improving infrastructure within the Luwero Triangle and the surrounding areas.

He spoke about the recent UPDF operations in western Uganda.

“I want to congratulate the CDF and the army for crushing the bad elements in Kasese. They were defeated by a small group of soldiers — only 12 — who managed to overpower them. That comes from confidence and solid training."

'Spirit of oneness'

On his part, CDF Kainerugaba urged the newly commissioned officer cadets to uphold discipline, resilience, and professionalism throughout their careers.

He praised the UPDF’s growing role in promoting peace and security across the African continent.

“Your Excellency, we thank you for continually embracing the spirit of oneness and for your sacrifice to make Africa strong."

Kainerugaba also gave an update on the security situation and the ongoing political campaigns in the country.

“The campaigns are progressing well, and we thank the security forces for working around the clock to ensure a peaceful electoral process. We also commend the citizens for respecting the Electoral Commission guidelines."

The CDF, however, cautioned candidates against provoking security forces, saying: “The security of the country will not be compromised merely because a particular candidate is campaigning. It doesn’t work like that."

On the recent attempted attack on security installations in Bundibugyo, Kasese, and Fort Portal on November 1, the army boss said two of the attackers were snuffed out.

“Confused elements armed mainly with machetes attempted to attack security posts. They were promptly repulsed by the UPDF and Uganda Police. Two attackers were put out of action,” he said.

He thanked the residents for rallying behind security forces during the attack. “As the ancient Romans used to say — those who desire peace must prepare for war.”

Brig. Gen. John Patrick Otongo, the Commandant of Kaweweta Training School, said the 498 officer cadets included 61 females.

He said the course trained them in military tactics, teamwork, resilience, and professionalism, preparing them for modern warfare. 

“Today’s event is more than just a commissioning ceremony — it is a demonstration of the quality and professionalism that defines the UPDF. The skills and discipline acquired here will serve these officers well in their service,” said Otongo.

He thanked the UPDF leadership, the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, and the external facilitators who contributed to the training, for their continued guidance and support in professionalising the forces.