Soldiers of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) assigned to Battle Group 45 (BGXLV) have been urged to demonstrate discipline and professionalism in preparation for their forthcoming mission.
Speaking at the opening of a two-week pre-deployment ideological course at the International Peace Support Operations Training Centre (IPSO-TC) in Nakaseke District, the Commandant, Col Moses Nabaasa, encouraged participants to uphold the force’s values through integrity, patriotism, and knowledge sharing.
He highlighted qualities expected of UPDF personnel, including selflessness, honesty, frugality, exemplary conduct, and respect for leaders, and, quoting former Burkina Faso president Thomas Sankara, warned that “a soldier without political ideological training is a potential criminal.”
Col Benon Asaba, Director of Political Commissariat – Land Force, also called on the group to remain ideologically committed, defend their country, and support government development initiatives such as the Parish Development Model, Emyooga, and Operation Wealth Creation.
The ceremony was attended by BGXLV Commander Col Justus Musenene, Chief Instructor Col David Watasa, Lt Col Morris Twongeirwe Kyatoko, and senior as well as junior officers from IPSO-TC.