Maj Gen Richard Otto, the Commander of the Mountain Division and Operation Shujaa, has officially launched a three-day human rights training program for officers and personnel of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) at Muhoti Barracks with the aim of boosting human rights.

The training, facilitated by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), aims to equip participants with essential knowledge and skills related to human rights and international humanitarian law.

Maj Gen Otto emphasized the importance of human rights training during the inauguration held on August 9, 2024.

“The UPDF’s longstanding commitment is to promoting these principles since its origins as the National Resistance Army (NRA),” Maj General Otto said.

He further challenged the participants to apply the knowledge gained in their respective units and formations.

“Take the training seriously, because it has lasting benefits throughout your military careers and beyond,” Maj Gen Otto said.

Col Deo Karikona, the Director of Ideological Development, expressed appreciation to the ICRC for their partnership in educating UPDF personnel on human rights.

“The UPDF, as a revolutionary army, prioritizes adherence to human rights as outlined in its doctrine,” Col Karikona said.

He warned that failure to comply with human rights standards carries serious consequences. The Colonel, therefore, encouraged participants to emerge as advocates for human rights within their ranks.

Thomas O’Boy, the head of the ICRC team, acknowledged the strategic relationship between the UPDF and the ICRC.

“The necessity of human rights training for security personnel and understanding the limits of warfare is essential because even wars have limits,” O’Boy said.

The comprehensive training program will cover a range of topics, including the history of human rights in Uganda, with a focus on security agencies’ roles, the Prevention and Prohibition of Torture Act and its implications for military and intelligence operations, and international humanitarian law.

According to the ICRC, this initiative aims to provide UPDF personnel with a thorough understanding of human rights principles and their application in various contexts, reinforcing the army’s commitment to uphold these critical values.