UPDF graduates 48 in offensive, defensive operations in South Sudan

Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) has graduated 48 trainees after a course on offensive and defensive operations in South Sudan.

Colonel Benard R. Kashemeza, Battle Group Commander, oversaw the graduation at Bilinyanga in South Sudan on September 16th.

Addressing the graduates, Col Kashemeza highlighted the value of the knowledge and skills acquired, emphasising their role in enhancing combat efficiency, capabilities, and readiness.

“Training is not for formality but is a vital means for building confidence and ensuring the mission is successful,” he said, according to a media release from UPDF.

He further noted that training is not punitive but prepares soldiers for future challenges, equipping them physically and mentally to perform their duties effectively. “It prepares your body and mind for that time when it comes as warriors to perform your duty,” Col Kashemeza added.

The Battle Group Commander expressed gratitude to Brigadier General Anthony Lukwago Mbuusi, Joint Task Force Commander, for his support during the training, and to the instructors for their dedicated efforts.

While recognising the commendable contributions of Brig Gen Mbuusi and the instructors, Major Nicholas Mutatiina, Battle Group Operations Officer, urged the trainees to maintain the courage, discipline, and cooperation demonstrated during the pass-out ceremony. 

Lieutenant Colonels H.T. Akiniagi, P.K. Amagule, C.K. Mawandri, and Osbert Katungi were among the senior army officers at the graduation. 

The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), at the request of South Sudan authorities, deployed an expeditionary force to the country in March 2025, helping to support the SSPDF in rear security operations to secure the capital Juba as well as provide other military technical assistance.

Maj. Nicholas Mutatiina

The security situation around the greater Juba region has since stabilised, easing tensions which have since allowed foreign missions, businesses, and trade to boom again.

Since March 2025,  fighting has pitted the government’s South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) against the Sudan People’s Liberation Army In Opposition (SPLA-IO), a Nuer tribal militia group that is allied to incarcerated 1st Vice President of South Sudan, Dr Riek Machar Teny Dhurgon.

The SPLA-IO, also known as the White Army, is accused of conducting widespread massacres against the rival Dinka communities and other ethnic groups in the region.