The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has passed out 62 soldiers who completed the Maritime Basic Induction Course at the Maritime Sustainment Base Ntokolo in Magamaga, Mayuge District.
Officiating at the ceremony, the Joint Staff Training and Doctrine, Brigadier General Wycliffe Keita, described the course as part of the UPDF’s deliberate strategy to strengthen security on Uganda’s water bodies and enhance the country’s national resilience.
Brig Gen Keita said the training forms part of the Chief of Defence Forces’ reinvigorated training agenda aimed at systematically building the professional competence, operational readiness, and combat effectiveness of every arm and service of the UPDF.
He noted that every member of the force must be equipped with the skills required to meet the demands of the contemporary and future battlespace.
Brig Gen Keita said that the Maritime Basic Induction Course marked another milestone in their professional careers and had equipped them with skills that would enhance their effectiveness in the field.
“Your success on this course portrays your unwavering loyalty and commitment to serving your country. The skills you have acquired are another milestone not only in your individual professional journey but also for the UPDF as an institution,” Brig Gen Keita said.
He added that the course reflects the joint nature of the UPDF and underscores the growing importance of marine capabilities across the force.
“Marine forces constitute a critical component of Uganda’s defence architecture. Your responsibilities go beyond safeguarding Uganda’s waters to securing vital national assets and infrastructure, while supporting joint land and air operations by facilitating mobility and enhancing our ability to respond rapidly to emerging security threats,” Brig Gen Keita said.
He reaffirmed the UPDF’s commitment to continued investment in marine capabilities, describing them as a national strategic imperative. He said the Maritime Sustainment Base Ntokolo will continue to be developed as a long-term logistics, transportation, and sustainment hub to strengthen the force’s operational resilience.
Representing the Commander of the 15 Marine Brigade, the Deputy Commander, Colonel Eliason Kugumisiriza, said the trainees were drawn from the Mountain Division, Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security, and the 155 Marines Battalion.
He explained that the course was designed to promote operational synergy across the different formations, noting that modern warfare requires integrated capabilities to address evolving security threats.
Col Kugumisiriza said the skills acquired would enhance the protection of Uganda’s water bodies and international borders. He urged them to safeguard their lives, reminding them that the UPDF had invested heavily in their training and expected them to remain healthy, strong, and mission-ready.
The Commandant of the Maritime Sustainment Base Ntokolo, Major Daniel Mwine Kaihura, said the course combined classroom instruction with intensive practical and field training, culminating in realistic operational exercises that tested the trainees under field conditions.
He thanked the UPDF leadership for its timely support, which ensured the successful conduct of the course.
Maj Kaihura congratulated the soldiers for their resilience and dedication, and urged them to uphold discipline throughout their military careers.
“The true measure of a soldier is not the course he has completed but the discipline he maintains, the lives he protects, and the honour with which he serves his country,” he said.
During the ceremony, Lt Keith Rwashande was recognised as the best overall student. Pte Mungulia Swaibu received the award for best swimmer, Pte Kiiza Paul was named the best in academics, while Pte Asiimwe Bridget emerged as the most disciplined student.
The ceremony was attended by the Deputy Commander of the Mountain Division, Col David Opero; the Commandant of the College of Logistics and Engineering, Col Chris Kyanku; the Deputy Commander of 14 Combat Engineering Brigade, Col Emmanuel Rubyakana; the Resident District Commissioner of Mayuge, Hajj Ramathan Walugembe; the LCV Chairperson of Mayuge District, Mr David Zijya; and other military and civilian leaders.
