Museveni Advises New UPDF Soldiers: Embrace Discipline, Shun Corruption

President Yoweri Museveni, in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief, addressed newly passed-out Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) recruits, emphasizing the critical importance of discipline, health, and integrity. He stated that these tenets form the bedrock of a commendable military career and a robust national defense.

“Maintain discipline, take care of your health, avoid corruption and your future will be very bright. You are only beginning your journey,” Museveni advised the soldiers during a hybrid pass-out ceremony for the 18th Intake at the UPDF Basic Military Training School in Kaweweta.

The ceremony recognized 11,948 recruits who successfully completed their basic military training. Notably, 1,741 of these recruits hailed from the Central African Republic, undertaking the program alongside their Ugandan counterparts since September 2025.

Museveni stressed that discipline alone is insufficient, encouraging continuous professional development through further education and specialized courses. He highlighted the necessity for modern soldiers to constantly enhance their knowledge and skills to effectively protect the nation.

Defending the rigorous nature of military training, the President explained its role in preparing soldiers for the harsh realities of combat. He recalled how early recruits sometimes struggled with intense physical drills, crawling through mud, and strenuous exercises, drawing parallels to the demands of the liberation struggle.

“All that is necessary. You need a lot of physical exercise so that you are in good shape when you go to the battlefield,” he asserted, cautioning that inadequate preparation makes soldiers vulnerable and detrimental to national security.

The President also alluded to a “new phase” for the UPDF, characterized by increased commitment, hard work, and accountability, referencing the “Kisanja Hakuna Kulala” (No More Sleep) initiative. He linked national security directly to economic progress, stating that a strong military requires a strong and modern economy, driven by sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, ICT, and services.

Museveni also expressed the need for Uganda to develop its capacity to manufacture its own weapons, ensuring self-reliance in defense.

He commended the UPDF leadership for improvements in soldier welfare and infrastructure, pledging government efforts to rehabilitate key roads leading to training facilities. The President also urged citizens to elect honest leaders in upcoming elections to combat corruption.

Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba echoed the call for discipline and highlighted ongoing welfare improvements for soldiers. He also acknowledged the UPDF’s role in maintaining peace and stability while warning against foreign-sponsored elements undermining national interests.

Minister of State for Defence Grace Ngabirano Akifeza and the Commandant of the Kaweweta training school, Brig. Gen. John Patrick Otongo, also addressed the recruits, marking their transition into professional soldiers ready to defend Uganda’s sovereignty and integrity.

Outstanding recruits were recognized, with Salwa Amanya named best overall recruit.

Source: Nile Post