The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has credited its success in military missions to its ideology and political education rather than superior weapons as 527 senior non-commissioned officers graduated in Jinja.
The officers passed out from the UPDF Non-Commissioned Officers Academy. They comprised Warrant Officers Intake 09/26 and Senior Non-Commissioned Officers Intake 23/26.
Jinja Cantonment Commander Brigadier General Emmanuel Kanyesigye presided over the ceremony on behalf of the Deputy Commander Land Force.
“The UPDF wins wherever it goes on mission not because it has the best weapons, but because of its ideology and political education, which remain the foundation of the force. If you fail to follow our political ideology and norms, you simply fall out of the institution’s culture and values,” Brig Gen Kanyesigye said.
He described non-commissioned officers as the backbone of the UPDF. He urged commanders to prioritise the welfare of their subordinates and reinforce the force’s values through daily engagement.
The Commandant of the Non-Commissioned Officers Academy, Brigadier General Ssozi Ssesanga, said the officers completed 20 weeks of leadership development, academic instruction, physical training and character building.
“Throughout this period, the officers have demonstrated resilience, discipline, determination, and a willingness to embrace new knowledge and responsibilities,” Brig Gen Ssesanga said.
He urged the officers to lead by example, uphold military discipline, mentor junior personnel and promote teamwork. He also asked them to remain committed to professional development.
“As senior non-commissioned leaders, you form the critical link between commanders and the soldiers under your charge. Your leadership directly influences discipline, morale, operational effectiveness, and mission success. The knowledge and experience you have acquired here should now be translated into exemplary leadership within your respective units and formations,” he said.
Senior UPDF officers attended the ceremony. They included Junior Staff College Commandant Brigadier General Chris Ogwal, Senior Command and Staff College Deputy Commandant Brigadier General Elvis Byamukama and Maga Maga Cantonment Commander Brigadier General Peter Gaetano Omora.
Colonel Chris Kyanku and Colonel Mbulachalo also attended.
