UPDF passes out first intake of armoured combat vehicle drivers

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The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Motorised Infantry Division on August 22, 2025, passed out its first intake of Multi-Role Combat Armoured Vehicle-20 (MCAV-20) drivers after a six-month specialised training programme.

In a statement, the army confirmed that a total of 78 soldiers, including four women, drawn from the Motorised Infantry Division and the Special Forces Command (SFC), successfully completed the course.

Presiding over the ceremony at the division headquarters in Nakasongola, Deputy Commander Land Forces, Maj. Gen. Francis Takirwa, commended the graduates for their discipline and dedication.

He urged them to apply their newly acquired skills in carrying out missions, particularly in safeguarding Very Important Persons (VIPs).

The Commander of the Motorised Infantry Division, Maj. Gen. Charles Byanyima, praised the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, for guiding the modification of the vehicles, which he said enhanced their operational effectiveness. 

He also pointed to notable improvements in soldier welfare. "Soldiers’ morale is high given the fact that their welfare has tremendously improved. This is attributed to the selfless efforts of the Chief of Defence Forces," he said.

Maj. Gen. Byanyima further acknowledged the contribution of UPDF instructors and civilian partners, including the Savannah Region Police Inspector of Vehicles and Ebenezer Driving School, whose collaboration ensured the training met the licensing standards of the Ministry of Works and Transport.

Col Esibio Omaria, the Division Operations and Training Officer, explained that the course was built around five key pillars: offensive and defensive driving, basic maintenance, obstacle crossing, and terrain navigation. 

"The graduates have attained skills in assertive driving manoeuvres to dominate the road, suppress obstacles, disrupt hostile vehicles, and execute tactics to neutralise threats or extract VIPs under direct attack," Col Omaria said.

Six trainees were recognised for outstanding performance. Private (Pte) Kamya Kerizon emerged overall best, Sgt Muhaniwemana Lymon was awarded best disciplined, and Pte Manyobe Francis was named best in the field. L/Cpl Akwii Everline was recognised as best female student, Pte Aide George Robert as best in class, while Pte Tumusinguze Mercy Paula received the most improved award.

The ceremony also featured the commissioning of new projects, including technical stores, a fuel station, the Front for National Salvation (FRONASA) senior officers’ mess, and housing units for soldiers.

Those in attendance included Brig. Gen. Edward Mutawe, director human resource management land forces; Col. Stuart Agaba, director policy and plans land forces; Col. John Siyareta, director operations land forces; Col Alan Mujurizi, commander 801 MOI Brigade; Nakasongola deputy resident district commissioner Gordon Musinguzi; and representatives from the Uganda Police Force and Uganda Prisons Service.