UPDF Passes Out 62 Soldiers In Maritime Basic Induction Course

What the report says

Watchdog Uganda reported that the Uganda People’s Defence Forces has graduated 62 soldiers from a Maritime Basic Induction Course at the Maritime Sustainment Base Ntokolo in Magamaga, Mayuge District. The ceremony was presided over by Brig Gen Wycliffe Keita, the Joint Staff Training and Doctrine officer, who said the programme fits into the UPDF’s wider effort to improve security on Uganda’s lakes and other water bodies while strengthening national preparedness.

According to the report, Keita linked the course to the Chief of Defence Forces’ renewed training agenda, focused on improving professionalism, readiness and operational effectiveness across UPDF arms and services. He said maritime capability is increasingly important to Uganda’s defence posture, including the protection of national assets, infrastructure and borders, as well as support to land and air operations through mobility and faster response to threats.

Col Eliason Kugumisiriza, deputy commander of the 15 Marine Brigade, represented the brigade commander and said the trainees came from the Mountain Division, the Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security, and the 15 Marine Brigade. He described the course as a way to build coordination across formations as security challenges require more integrated military capabilities.

The base commandant, Maj Daniel Mwine Kaihura, said the training combined classroom instruction, practical drills and field exercises. Awards went to Lt Keith Rwashande as best overall student, Pte Mungulia Swaibu as best swimmer, Pte Kiiza Paul for academics, and Pte Asiimwe Bridget as most disciplined student. The event was attended by senior military officers and Mayuge district leaders.