Museveni Passes out 298 Counter Terrorism Warriors

President Yoweri Museveni, who also serves as the Commander in Chief of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), on Thursday presided over the passing out of 298 Counter Terrorism Warriors from Intake 07/23-24 and 58 Special Tactics trainees. These warriors successfully completed nine months of rigorous training at the School of Military Intelligence and Security in Migyera, Nakasongola District.

President Museveni praised the graduates for enduring the challenging course under austere conditions with limited resources, noting that they had acquired exceptional skills. He expressed his appreciation to the UPDF for maximising the available resources to produce an effective force, emphasising that this should serve as an example to all Ugandans, showing that one can achieve much with what is available.

The President highlighted the progress made through the mastery of skills and cautioned the graduates about the significant responsibilities ahead. He urged them to remain diligent in fulfilling their mandate. Additionally, Museveni pledged to enhance the school’s infrastructure, recognising the critical importance of intelligence in national security.

Nyirabashitsi Sarah Mateke, the Minister of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs In-charge of Defence, who represented the Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, thanked the President for his strategic vision that ensures the continued training of the army, thereby guaranteeing national defence. She also encouraged the graduates to maintain their commitment and uphold the core values of the UPDF.

Lt. Gen. Kayanja Muhanga, the Commander of the Land Forces, represented the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, and lauded the Ministry of Defence for its support during the training. He congratulated the officers and warned them against indiscipline.

Maj. Gen. James Birungi, the Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security (CDIS) - UPDF, advised the graduates to serve with humility and integrity, reminding them that they are trained not just to collect information, but to address insecurities.

Col. James Muhumuza, the Commandant at the UPDF School of Military Intelligence & Security, emphasised that training is a continuous process. He urged the officers to stay updated and committed to serving with integrity. “Keep the oath of allegiance and uphold the flag of your country,” he said.

The UPDF School of Military Intelligence & Security, established in 1987 in Kireka, has evolved through various locations and finally settled in Migyera in January 2020. The school has since trained officers in various skills.

The ceremony concluded with the awarding of gifts to the top trainees, recognising their excellence in the course.

Counter Terrorism Course Awards:

• Sgt. Kahuma Richard - Overall Best
• Pte. Omoding James - Professional Student
• Pte. Ataho Dan - Disciplined Student
• Pte. Mpamfa Rachael - Best Female Student

Special Tactics Course Award:

• Pte. Aziz Konia - Best Overall Student

The event was attended by the Director General of NEC, Heads of ISO and CMI, trainers, instructors, as well as civilian and religious leaders.