NAKASEKE — Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba has said the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) will continue supporting the government’s target of transforming Uganda into a $500 billion economy by 2040, arguing that security is essential for sustainable economic growth.
Speaking on Thursday during the pass-out ceremony of recruits at Kaweweta Military Training School in Nakaseke District, Gen Muhoozi said the military remains committed to safeguarding peace and stability while supporting national development programmes.
“The UPDF remains fully committed to supporting the government’s strategic objective of building a US$500 billion economy by 2040,” Gen Muhoozi said.
He said the armed forces remain aligned with the government’s development agenda, which prioritises wealth creation, industrialisation and infrastructure development.
During his address, Gen Muhoozi congratulated President Museveni on his victory in the January 2026 General Election and his inauguration for a new term, expressing the military’s commitment to supporting the government’s objectives.
Regional security operations
The CDF said the UPDF continues to conduct operations against remnants of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
He added that the force has implemented strict health and operational measures to protect troops deployed in areas affected by the Ebola outbreak.
On South Sudan, Gen Muhoozi said the security situation in Juba had improved following the deployment of UPDF troops.
Regarding Somalia, he acknowledged that the mission faces operational and sustainability challenges but said the UPDF High Command, under the guidance of President Museveni, would determine the next course of action.
Warning on national security
Gen Muhoozi also warned against what he described as individuals working on behalf of foreign interests to undermine Uganda’s sovereignty.
He said security agencies would take action against any persons whose activities threaten national security or the country’s development.
“We shall not tolerate elements seeking to undermine Uganda’s sovereignty and national development,” he said.
Welfare reforms
The CDF said the UPDF is implementing reforms aimed at improving the welfare of its personnel.
He cited salary enhancements, construction of accommodation, modernisation of military infrastructure, and improvements to military schools and health facilities as some of the ongoing initiatives.
Addressing the newly graduated recruits, Gen Muhoozi urged them to uphold discipline, remain physically fit and discharge their duties with professionalism.
“Maintain physical and medical fitness, uphold discipline and loyalty, and cultivate an unyielding warrior spirit,” he said.
Training for modern warfare
Kaweweta Military Training School Commandant Brig Gen John Patrick Otongo said the recruits had completed comprehensive military training designed to prepare them for contemporary security challenges.
He said although advances in technology continue to shape military operations, discipline, courage and sound judgment remain fundamental qualities of an effective soldier.
The UPDF is currently deployed in operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan and Somalia under bilateral and regional security arrangements aimed at combating armed groups and supporting regional stability.