President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has applauded the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) for its growing capability and modern training efforts, while cautioning new graduates to value both their lives and the equipment entrusted to them.
The President made the remarks on Thursday, July 17, 2025, while officiating at the graduation ceremony of 413 officers and men at the Mechanised Warfare Training School in Karama, Mubende District.
The graduates completed specialised military training in Armoured Platoon, Armoured Technical and Crew Courses, and Wheeled Infantry Fighting Vehicle operations.
“I want to congratulate the 413 officers and men who graduated today from the Mechanised Warfare College in Karama, Mubende District,” President Museveni said.
“War is both a science and an art. The science is the equipment like tanks and guns while the art lies in how well that equipment is used,” he added.
The President highlighted historical examples, such as the Crimean War, to explain how military technology shapes battle strategy.
“When the machine gun was introduced, it completely removed the use of horses from the battlefield,” he noted.
While addressing the fresh graduates, Museveni urged them to protect their lives and maintain their military tools.
“I urge you to take care of your lives and cherish the equipment given to you. If you don’t, you may find yourselves in serious danger when war breaks out,” he warned.
The Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, was represented at the ceremony by the Deputy CDF, Lt Gen Sam Okiding, who expressed gratitude to the President for his continued guidance in strengthening the UPDF.
“Your Excellency, we thank you for your vision and strategic direction. What we witnessed today in terms of firepower and precision marks a new chapter for our army,” said Lt Gen Okiding.
He cautioned the graduates against mishandling military equipment, emphasising the critical bond between a soldier and his tools.
“There is a big secret between the equipment and the soldier. When you deny the equipment its lubricants or divert them, the equipment will deny you victory. And what happens? You’ll die,” he said.
Lt Gen Okiding added that under the President’s directive, the UPDF is restructuring its training institutions into centres of excellence.
“We are not only focusing on skills and knowledge. We are improving infrastructure, providing better accommodation, and building both capacity and capability,” he revealed.
The graduation showcased both the operational strength of the UPDF and the government’s commitment to professionalising the force. The event was attended by senior UPDF commanders, military instructors, and family members of the graduates.
