Nakasongola, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | A group of 298 Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) soldiers have completed counter-terrorism training at Nakasongola School of Defense and Intelligence.
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni who presided over the pass out of the 298 plus 58 Special tactics warriors at the School of Defence, Intelligence and Security in Nakasongola, emphasized the crucial role of intelligence in military operations, highlighting its significance in informing strategic decisions and ensuring national security.
“The Intelligence is the eyes, ears, and the nose of the Army. So that whenever the Army is going anywhere, it knows where it is going, what it is going to do there, and what is there,” said Museveni.
Museveni encouraged the passed out commandos to realize their full potential in life while cautioning them against detrimental habits like promiscuity and alcoholism.
The President expressed his gratitude to the instructors and the School of Defense Intelligence and Security for maintaining high standards, which are crucial for success on the battlefield.
Sarah Nyirabashitsi Mateke, Minister of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs, said Museveni’s strategic leadership and commitment has enhanced UPDF’s capabilities through training and professional development hence enabling the force to effectively address evolving security challenges.
Nyirabashitsi urged the soldiers to build upon the legacy of bravery and sacrifice left by their predecessors, who have selflessly served and protected the nation over the years.
“You have earned this honour with hard work and you will retain it by living the core values of UPDF which are loyalty, patriotism, courage, discipline, and teamwork,” she said.
Lt. Gen Kayanja Muhanga, the Commander Land Force, who represented the Chief of Defence Forces, reminded the soldiers that the courses mark the starting point of their ongoing training and development.
According to Lt. Gen Muhanga, indiscipline and reckless habits can jeopardize the capability of the force and ruin careers.
Maj. Gen James Birungi, Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security, also emphasized that soldiers are held to high standards and are expected to perform their duties to the best of their abilities, meeting the expectations placed upon them.
The Nakasongola Defence and Intelligence Security School Commandant Colonel James Muhumuza, said the training programs were tailored to equip the soldiers with the expertise to conduct specialized missions against terrorist threats and execute intricate operations with precision.
“In modern times, Terrorism remains a preferred method of creating violence and terror by most bad elements. This training is our humble contribution to fighting and completely defeating terrorism in Uganda and making this country a better place to live in,” said Col. Muhumuza.