UPDF Officers Trained on International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights

The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Legal Training Centre in Jinja has passed out 23 participants who completed a two-week course in International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and Human Rights.

The course, the first of its kind to be conducted locally, was aimed at equipping officers from different UPDF units with knowledge to enhance respect for human rights and adherence to international humanitarian standards during operations.

Col Simon Wankandya, the Director of Legal Services – Land Force, on behalf of the Joint Staff Legal Services, commended the participants for embracing the training, noting that for long, matters of IHL and human rights were exclusive to legal officers.

“It is encouraging that the window has now been opened wider for all soldiers. These courses used to be conducted abroad, but with the wise leadership of UPDF, we are now able to run them here at home,” Col Wankandya said. He expressed confidence that the graduates would deliver, urging them to share their knowledge with colleagues in the field.

He emphasised that IHL and human rights are essential in all military operations. “No operation can succeed without applying both because UPDF works with people, and it is a pro-people force,” he said.

Col Susan Mwanga, Commandant of the Legal Training Centre, hailed the inaugural intake, saying the trainees were drawn from across the UPDF to ensure a wider impact. She encouraged them to put the knowledge into practice and to continuously engage in more training to strengthen respect for human rights within the UPDF.

“This centre will continue conducting such courses to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of UPDF personnel in addressing the evolving challenges of military service,” Col Mwanga added.

The training was facilitated by a team of directing staff and guest experts from the Legal Training Centre.

Outstanding participants included: Lt Davis Origye Muhumuza (Best Overall Student), 2Lt Sharon Atimango excelled in academic performance and gender participation, while Capt Nelson Acheda was awarded for exceptional leadership, command, and control.