The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has taken another step towards strengthening its specialised military capabilities after 214 soldiers successfully completed an intensive commando training programme conducted by the Special Forces Command (SFC).
The graduates, comprising 204 male soldiers and 10 female personnel, completed Intake 05/25-26 of the Commando Qualification Course at the Special Warfare Centre and School, Camp Rufu, in Ruhengyere, Kiruhura District.
The graduation ceremony was presided over by the SFC Commander, Major General Asaph Mweteise Nyakikuru, who also officially launched Intake 06, marking the continuation of efforts to build a highly skilled and professional military force.
The training programme is intended to equip soldiers with specialised competencies, physical endurance and the ability to undertake demanding military assignments in different operational environments.
Addressing the newly qualified commandos, Maj Gen Nyakikuru underscored the importance of continuous military training, noting that modern security threats require armed forces to constantly improve their skills and operational preparedness.
He challenged the graduates to translate the knowledge and experience gained during the course into effective service, stressing that military effectiveness depends on the ability to adapt to changing operational demands.
“Continuous training is an arm that moves an army to make operations simple,” he said.
The SFC commander acknowledged that financial and logistical constraints could affect military operations but maintained that investment in specialised training remains essential for maintaining an effective fighting force.
He further cautioned the soldiers against indiscipline, arrogance and complacency, urging them to respect military command structures and uphold the standards expected of professional officers and men.
“We have trained warriors to finish the enemies of Uganda within and beyond,” he emphasised.
Military training linked to national security
The Commander of the UPDF’s 2 Infantry Division, Major General Paul Muhanguzi, highlighted the connection between a professionally trained military and the country’s broader development aspirations.
He said a secure environment provides citizens with the confidence to participate in economic activities, establish businesses, create wealth and contribute to national development.
Maj Gen Muhanguzi credited President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief, for providing strategic guidance towards military modernisation and professional development.
He also called on the newly trained soldiers to maintain positive relations with civilians, explaining that the military’s effectiveness depends partly on the trust and cooperation of the population it serves.
“There is no force without wanainchi. We recruit from them, serve with them, and when we retire, we go back to live with wanainchi,” he said.
SFC leadership challenges graduates to deliver
Colonel Jimmy Mukuba Kabila, the Group Commander of 2 Special Forces Group, said the course was designed to develop soldiers capable of handling complex assignments while demonstrating teamwork, discipline and commitment.
He challenged the graduates to demonstrate that the resources invested in their training had produced the expected results through dedication and professional conduct.
“The army has invested in you and we expect returns,” Kabila said.
The Commandant of the Special Warfare Centre and School, Major Natal Vuraga Kanzo, commended the UPDF leadership for supporting specialised military education and the development of a modern, professional and people-centred force.
He urged the graduates to remain courageous and resilient, particularly when confronted with difficult physical and operational conditions.
Camp Rufu’s contribution to Kiruhura
Beyond its military responsibilities, Camp Rufu has also become part of the wider development story of Kiruhura District.
The district’s LC V Chairperson, Dan Mukago, said the establishment of the military training institution had contributed to the area’s development while reinforcing the importance of peace and security.
He described Camp Rufu as an institution whose significance extends beyond military instruction to the development of surrounding communities.
“In fact, Camp Rufu is not only a training school but a development pattern to our district,” Mukago said.
He encouraged the graduates to serve Uganda and the international community with loyalty, integrity and sacrifice.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of certificates and gifts to outstanding participants who excelled in different training disciplines.
The event attracted UPDF directors of training, senior and junior military officers, Uganda Police Force representatives, military instructors and other invited guests.
The graduation of the 214 soldiers, alongside the opening of a new training intake, highlights the UPDF’s continued emphasis on specialised training as part of its broader efforts to strengthen military professionalism and operational preparedness.