The Commander of the 3 Infantry Division, Brigadier General Michael Walaka Hyeroba, has urged Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) to mentor junior soldiers, uphold discipline and strengthen professionalism in the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF).
He made the call during an engagement with junior and senior NCOs at the Division Headquarters in Moroto.
“I urge you to take full charge of mentoring your juniors and shaping them into responsible and disciplined soldiers who are ready to execute their duties as required,” he said.
Brig Gen Hyeroba commended the NCOs for serving as a vital link between officers and soldiers, noting that the meeting would help identify their strengths and weaknesses and determine areas requiring additional support.
He added that every Corporal, Sergeant, Staff Sergeant and Warrant Officer must serve as a teacher, guide and role model who provides clear direction, corrects mistakes firmly and builds confidence among subordinates.
The Deputy Division Commander, Colonel John Winston Mugarura, described NCOs as the backbone of the Army, emphasising their role in passing on experience and expertise to junior soldiers.
“NCOs are the backbone of the Army. They must share their experience and expertise with their subordinates and guide them effectively,” he said.
The Division Sergeant Major, Warrant Officer Class One Molly Siraj Kivembale, pledged to work closely with NCOs at all levels to ensure the Division achieves its objectives and fulfills the UPDF mission.
“I thank the Division Commander for this initiative. Engaging junior commanders will boost their morale and strengthen their ability to guide and mentor soldiers,” he said.
Also present were the Division Administrative Officer, Colonel Richard Butungi, and heads of departments at the Division Headquarters.
