news 20 October 2026 State House (Uganda)

President Museveni Commissions 280 UPDF Officer Cadets, Warns Against Rural Crime

President Yoweri Museveni commissioned 280 new UPDF officer cadets at Kabamba, urging them to maintain strict discipline, protect the economy, and crack down on rural crime targeting government poverty alleviation programs. Source: https://statehouse.go.ug/president-museveni-commissions-280-updf-officer-cadets-calls-for-economic-protection-and-crackdown-on-rural-crime

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has commissioned 280 officer cadets into the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) during a ceremony held at the Uganda Military Academy-Kabamba in Mubende District. The newly commissioned group includes professionals and Bachelor of Defence Studies graduates, alongside a number of officers who completed specialized training abroad.

Speaking at the event, President Museveni congratulated the graduates and reminded them that military effectiveness depends heavily on discipline, commitment, and sound leadership. He emphasized that national defense is closely tied to economic strength, urging military leaders to safeguard productive sectors including commercial agriculture, manufacturing, and ICT.

The Commander-in-Chief also addressed the issue of rural crime, specifically warning against the theft of livestock distributed to farmers under the Parish Development Model. He noted that such acts of sabotage directly undermine government efforts to improve household incomes and transform local communities.

Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who attended the ceremony alongside Defence Minister Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka and other senior military officials, noted that while regional security remains stable, domestic authorities have noted an uptick in violent crime. Gen. Kainerugaba warned that security agencies would take firm action against criminals disrupting public safety.

Minister Kiryowa Kiwanuka commended the continuous professionalization of the UPDF under the current leadership and urged the newly commissioned officers to uphold integrity, constitutional loyalty, and discipline as they begin their service.