UPDF Mountain Warfare Training School Passes Out 742 Recruits In Ntoroko District

The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Mountain Warfare Training School (MWTS) in Karugutu, Ntoroko District, passed out 742 recruits, 32 of whom were women, after the basic military training course. The recruits were drawn from the districts of Bunyangabu, Ntoroko, Kabarole, Kasese, Kamwenge and Bundibugyo.

Representing the Commander Land Force (CLF), the Deputy Commander Land Force (D/CLF), Major General Joseph Ssemwanga, advised the newly passed-out soldiers to learn from their senior colleagues and uphold the values of professionalism.

He reminded them of the key responsibilities of an infantry soldier, including maintaining their weapons, promoting teamwork and comradeship, and respecting civilians.

Addressing the parents and residents of Ntoroko and neighbouring districts, Maj Gen Ssemwanga expressed appreciation for their trust in allowing their sons and daughters to join the UPDF.

“To the people of Ntoroko and the neighbouring districts, thank you for entrusting us with your children. They are no longer the children who used to play football; they are now security personnel serving their country,” he said.

The Commander of the Mountain Infantry Division, Maj Gen Stephen Mugerwa, thanked parents for supporting their sons and daughters and assured them that the UPDF would continue to nurture and professionally develop them throughout their service.

The Commandant of the Mountain Warfare Training School, Col Jedidiah Kiyengo, urged the recruits to put into practice the knowledge and skills acquired during their training.

“Remember that discipline is the backbone of the UPDF. It drives us to excel, making us reliable in the face of adversity,” Col Kiyengo said.

He commended the instructors for their dedication and professionalism in delivering training that meets the standards of the UPDF and contributes to the operational effectiveness of the division.

Present were senior and junior officers of the UPDF, representatives from Uganda Police and Uganda Wildlife Authority, among others.