The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Motorized Infantry Division has conducted a 30-kilometre route march across parts of Nakasongola District as part of efforts to strengthen troops’ physical fitness, discipline and operational readiness.
The exercise, codenamed “Open Vein,” brought together personnel from the Motorized Infantry Division headquarters, attached units within the cantonment, and officers from the Nakasongola District Traffic Police.
The march is in line with the UPDF leadership’s broader plan to test troops’ physical fitness, discipline, teamwork, resilience, combat readiness and overall preparedness for future operations.
Addressing troops at the division headquarters, the commander of the Motorized Infantry Division, Major General Charles Byanyima, said the exercise should not be seen as punishment, but as an important test of health, endurance, teamwork and readiness.
“This exercise has demonstrated our physical endurance, discipline, teamwork and operational readiness under load. This is in line with the constitutional mandate of protecting people’s lives and property, and the sovereignty of our country,” Maj Gen Byanyima said.
He added that beyond physical conditioning, the march also strengthened unity, teamwork and endurance among the troops.
The annual 30-kilometre route march is part of the division’s calendar of activities and is conducted across ranks on a rotational basis among tactical formations.
The exercise was attended by Col Esibio Omaria, the Motorized Infantry Division Operations and Training Officer; SP Steven Niragire, the Nakasongola District Police Commander; ASP Emmanuel Manirakiza, the Nakasongola Police OC Operations; and other military officers and personnel.
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