UPDF Passes Out Personnel for Karamoja Disarmament, Wildlife Conservation Operations

The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) 3 Infantry Division has passed out specialised personnel comprising Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) from Ideology Course Intake 04/2026 and personnel assigned to a Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) task force.

The graduates are expected to undertake assignments within the division’s area of responsibility, including disarmament operations in the Karamoja sub-region and environmental conservation activities in the Mount Elgon Conservation Area (MECA), which covers eight districts in the Sebei and Bugisu sub-regions.

Presiding over the ceremony, the Commander of the 3 Infantry Division, Major General Wilberforce Serunkuma, commended both instructors and trainees for their commitment throughout the training period.

Maj Gen Serunkuma urged them to uphold discipline and professionalism in the execution of their duties.

“The certificate is a representation of the responsibility entrusted to you by the UPDF, and your proper execution represents the values of patriotism, integrity, selflessness and service to the nation,” Maj Gen Serunkuma said.

The Deputy Division Commander, Brigadier General Allan Kyangungu, reminded the officers that wildlife conservation operations require a different approach from disarmament missions. He urged them to remain professional, adhere to the chain of command, and exercise responsibility when using digital platforms and smartphone applications.

On behalf of the Executive Director of the Uganda Wildlife Authority, Commissioner for Operations Charles Tumwesigye thanked the Chief of Defence Forces and the leadership of the 3 Infantry Division for supporting the conservation mission.

He said the deployed personnel would play an important role in protecting the conservation area while fostering positive relations with surrounding communities.

“The communities around the conservation areas should see you not only as protectors of the park but also as representatives of the government. Uphold the highest standards of professionalism at all times and build positive relationships with the community,” Mr Tumwesigye said.

According to the Division Operations and Training Officer, Colonel Santorino Tumuryanze, the training was designed to strengthen the leadership, command and operational capabilities of the NCOs, who form a key component of military discipline and effectiveness.

Col Tumuryanze said both the ideology graduates and the UWA task force personnel had completed their training and were prepared for deployment.

The ceremony was attended by regional leaders and security officials, including Napak Resident District Commissioner Milton Odongo, senior UWA officials, brigade and battalion commanders, the Deputy Commandant of the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU), the Mount Moroto Regional Police Commander, and other senior and junior staff officers.