The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has trained 61 soldiers in logistics and bus driving to improve operational efficiency and road safety within the force. The soldiers completed a five-month training at the School of Supplies and Transport (SOST) in Gaddafi Barracks, Jinja City.
Among the graduates, 47 soldiers completed the Regimental Quartermaster Sergeants (RQMS) course, while 14 were trained as bus drivers.
Training to Improve Transport and Logistics
Brig Gen Flavia Byekwaso, the Chief of Staff at the Uganda Rapid Deployment Capability Centre, presided over the ceremony on behalf of the Joint Staff Logistics. She emphasized the critical role of logistics and transport in military operations.
“You are now professional drivers and responsible logistics personnel. Exhibit high levels of integrity and discipline to enhance road safety and logistics management in the UPDF,” she said.
She urged the graduates to practice patience, humility, and problem-solving skills, which she described as essential for successful logistics management and driving.
Enhancing Efficiency and Reducing Accidents
Col JB Katongole, the Commandant of SOST, said the training aimed at producing competent drivers to reduce accidents and equipping logistics personnel to manage supplies efficiently.
“The skills you have acquired should be put into practice for the benefit of the force,” he told the graduates.
Top Performers Recognized
Several soldiers received awards for outstanding performance:
- WOI Ibrahim Mawa – Most Disciplined Student (Bus Drivers Course)
- S/Sgt Musoke Patrick Saaku – Most Disciplined Student (RQMS Course)
- Pte Duca Emmanuel Ogwal – Best Overall Student
- L/Cpl Friday Aurther – Best in Practicals
The event was attended by senior UPDF officers, including Brig Gen Michael Ssozi Ssesanga, Commandant of the Non-Commissioned Officers Academy (NCOA); Lt Col Justus Magembe, Chief Instructor at the College of Logistics and Engineering; and Lt Col SB Kalyesubula, among others.
The training is part of UPDF’s ongoing efforts to enhance efficiency in transport and logistics operations.
