UPDF 3rd infantry division passes out UWA conservation security personnel
The specialised personnel were urged to remain professional, adhere to the chain of command, and exercise responsibility when using digital platforms and smartphone applications.
Maj. Gen. Serunkuuma addressing the graduands. (Courtesy)
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The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) on Saturday, June 20, 2026, said its 3rd Infantry Division has passed out two groups of specialised personnel, comprising Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) from Ideology course Intake 04/2026 and personnel assigned to a Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) taskforce.
“The graduates are expected to undertake assignments within the division’s area of responsibility, including disarmament operations in the Karamoja sub-region and environmental conservation activities in the Mount Elgon Conservation Area, which covers eight districts in the Sebei and Bugisu sub-regions,” UPDF said in a statement.
Presiding over the ceremony, the Commander of the 3rd Infantry Division, Maj. Gen. Wilberforce Serunkuma commended both instructors and trainees for their commitment throughout the training period.
“The certificate is a representation of the responsibility entrusted to you by the UPDF, and your proper execution represents the values of patriotism, integrity, selflessness and service to the nation,” Serunkuma said.
The Deputy Division Commander, Brig. Gen. Allan Kyangungu reminded the officers that wildlife conservation operations require a different approach from disarmament missions.
He urged them to remain professional, adhere to the chain of command, and exercise responsibility when using digital platforms and smartphone applications.
On behalf of the UWA Executive Director, the authority's Commissioner for Operations, Charles Tumwesigye, thanked the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba and the leadership of the 3rd Infantry Division for supporting the conservation mission.
“The communities around the conservation areas should see you not only as protectors of the park, but also as representatives of the Government. Uphold the highest standards of professionalism at all times and build positive relationships with the community,” Tumwesigye said.
According to the Division Operations and Training Officer, Col Santorino Tumuryanze, the training was designed to strengthen the leadership, command, and operational capabilities of the NCOs, who form a key component of military discipline and effectiveness.
Col Tumuryanze said both the ideology graduates and the UWA taskforce personnel had completed their training and were prepared for deployment.
The ceremony was attended by regional leaders and security officials, including Napak Resident District Commissioner Milton Odongo, senior UWA officials, brigade and battalion commanders, the Deputy Commandant of the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU), the Mount Moroto Regional Police Commander, and other senior and junior staff officers.
UWA manages 10 National Parks; 12 Wildlife reserves; 5 Community Wildlife Management Areas; and 13 Wildlife Sanctuaries. The ten National Parks include Queen Elizabeth, Lake Mburo, Murchison Falls, Kidepo Valley, Kibale, Mount Elgon, Rwenzori Mountains, Semuliki, Mgahinga Gorilla, and Bwindi Impenetrable National Parks.