The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has commended the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) Air Force for its remarkable transformation and continuous strides toward professionalization. He described the Air Force as a symbol of Uganda’s growing military capability and ambition.
Speaking at a graduation ceremony held at the Uganda Air Force College, Gen. Kainerugaba reflected on the Air Force’s historic journey—from its origins as part of a guerrilla movement with no aerial capacity to its current evolution into one of Africa’s most promising and steadily advancing air forces. He urged the newly graduated personnel, especially pilots and instructors, to master every function of their aircraft, emphasizing that superior knowledge and operational competence will distinguish Uganda’s airmen in an increasingly competitive regional security landscape.
The ceremony marked the successful graduation of over 500 officers in various specializations, including military pilots, pilot instructors, aircraft systems operators, engineers, and other aviation-related fields. Their integration into the force is expected to significantly enhance the UPDF’s modernization efforts, particularly as air mobility, reconnaissance, and rapid response become increasingly vital in regional operations.
Gen. Kainerugaba also reiterated his firm stance against corruption within the UPDF, warning that there will be no mercy for those who misuse military funds—a statement met with resounding applause from guests and graduates. In addition to officiating the graduation, the CDF commissioned several infrastructure projects and housing units for soldiers.
Lt. Gen. Charles Okidi, Commander of the Air Force, expressed gratitude to the CDF for his leadership in advancing Uganda’s air capabilities. Brig. Gen. James Muhwezi, Commandant of the Uganda Air Force College, praised the graduates’ readiness to serve and acknowledged the CDF’s support in developing infrastructure at the training facility.
Security and Defence: A Strategic National Priority
The security and defence sector remains one of the top priorities of the Government of Uganda. During the financial year 2024/25, significant achievements were registered, reinforcing Uganda’s commitment to peace, stability, and institutional transformation.
Among the key milestones was the promotion of regional and international relations, with Uganda playing a strategic role in peace processes across Somalia, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Equatorial Guinea. These diplomatic engagements underscore Uganda’s growing influence in regional security and conflict resolution.
Domestically, the country recorded a 4.1% reduction in crime volume—from 228,074 cases reported in 2023 to 218,715 cases in 2024. This led to a decline in the national crime rate from 516 to 476 cases per 100,000 persons, reflecting improved law enforcement and community safety measures.
To further enhance public safety, the Government began rolling out the Intelligent Transport Monitoring System (ITMS), aimed at improving vehicle and motorcycle tracking. As of the reporting period, 26,818 vehicles and 62,512 motorcycles had been registered under the system. Complementing this initiative, security cameras have been installed across the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area and major highways to bolster crime surveillance and response.
Uganda Prisons Service is undergoing a transformation from a consumptive to a productive force. This shift has contributed to national food security and reduced the budgetary burden of inmate care. In FY 2024/25, the service produced 1,733 metric tons of maize seed, 305,485 kilograms of cotton for the local textile industry, and 12,290 metric tons of grain to support prisoner feeding programs. These efforts also stimulated growth in Uganda’s textile sector.
In line with the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Manifesto, the Government continued its cattle compensation programme in the Acholi, Lango, and Teso sub-regions. Since FY 2021/22, a total of Shs 142.9 billion has been paid to 53,592 claimants. For FY 2025/26, Shs 80 billion has been allocated to settle remaining claims. Additionally, Shs 15 billion has been earmarked for ex gratia payments (akasiimo) to Luweero war victims.
Looking ahead, the Government has allocated Shs 9.9 trillion in FY 2025/26 to consolidate national security. This funding will support the continued modernization and professionalization of security agencies, improve the welfare of security personnel, facilitate the conduct of general elections in 2026, expand access to justice and law enforcement services, and strengthen immigration and border control systems.
UPDF Integrates Former Local Defence Volunteers
In a parallel development, the UPDF Mountain Division officially integrated 298 former local defence volunteers into its ranks during a pass-out ceremony at the Mountain Warfare Training School (MWTS) in Ntoroko District.
Presiding over the ceremony, Brig. Gen. Paul Muwonge, Deputy Commander of the Mountain Division, commended the new soldiers for their dedication and courage. He recalled their origins as volunteers in 2023, when they joined efforts to combat Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) terrorists who had infiltrated the Tooro sub-region, including Kasese, Kamwenge, and Bunyangabu districts.
“These men and women were already heroes in their villages long before they came here. Their bravery laid the foundation for today’s achievement,” Brig. Gen. Muwonge remarked.
He emphasized that the recruits were joining the UPDF during a period of transformation under the leadership of President and Commander-in-Chief Gen (Rtd) Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. Brig. Gen. Muwonge highlighted the UPDF’s commitment to professionalism and ideological clarity, noting that operations like Shujaa were born from this leadership to neutralize threats before they reach Ugandan soil.
Urging the new soldiers to uphold discipline and serve with dedication, he said, “UPDF is a protector of the people and a symbol of hope. You’re joining a strong team. Just add your bricks as we build Uganda together.” He also acknowledged Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s efforts in promoting professionalism and improving soldier welfare.
Col. Jedidiah Kiyengo, Commandant of MWTS, reminded the graduates that military drills signify more than physical movement. “These movements reflect unity, cohesion, and a shared mission,” he stated, adding that discipline involves self-control, accountability, and striving for excellence.
Ntoroko Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Mzee Silus, praised the unity displayed throughout the training. “They came as individuals, but are leaving as a bonded family ready to serve the nation,” he said. He also cautioned locals against encroaching on MWTS land.
