His Excellency Gen (Rtd) Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the President of the Republic of Uganda and Commander-in-Chief of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces, has cautioned newly commissioned Officer Cadets against careerism during their service in the military.
“African Armies look at the army as a job. The Army is not a job. It is an obligation and responsibility. When you are defending your country, it is not a job. Don’t bring a careerist mentality into the army!” cautioned President Museveni.
The President made the remarks today during the commissioning of Officer Cadets Intake 18/23-24 long at the Basic Military Training School, Kaweweta, Nakaseke District.
He urged them to deal with corrupt tendencies and the lack of patriotism within the forces.
“When you get a job, instead of doing it properly, you steal the money and do shoddy work. Therefore, our young graduates, no corruption! This is what you must not tolerate,” said H.E Museveni.
On welfare issues for soldiers, the President noted that he continues to advocate for housing infrastructure, health, army schools (Primary schools near each Battalion and Secondary schools near each Brigade) and giving funds for soldiers’ spouses to engage in economic production.
He reminded the commissioned officer cadets of the spirit of Pan-Africanism. He said that the problems facing the continent can be solved through the solidarity and cooperation of African States.
The Minister of State for Defence, Hon. Sarah Nyirabashitsi Mateke, reiterated the Ministry’s commitment towards supporting training and called for closer regional cooperation in all security efforts of the allied States.
The Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kaineruagaba, commended the newly commissioned officers for their resilience, which enabled them to complete the course and reminded them of the milestones they had achieved.
“I know how hard you have all worked over the past year, and I hope you are proud of your achievements. This moment marks a significant milestone in your military career because 25 years ago, I underwent what you have just completed and know what you have just gone through; fear, self-doubt and anxiety that comes with this course,” said Gen Kainerugaba.
He reminded them of the responsibilities that await them after their commissioning.
“Remember, leadership is not merely a position but a profound responsibility. You are entrusted with the lives of those under your command, the security of our nation and upholding the highest standard of integrity, discipline and professionalism. In every decision you make, let the principles of duty, honour and love of country guide you,” the Chief of Defence Forces added.
The Commandant, Basic Military Training School, Kaweweta, Brig Gen Bonny Wolimbwa, said that the commissioned officers were composed of UPDF, Internal Security and External Security Organisation personnel, and cadets from Mali and Tanzania. He said that the Officers have been equipped with skills and knowledge to help them in their future work as officers.
“The international make-up of the graduates portrays the Pan-African spirit. The core object of the course reflected 3 training elements: morality/character, intellect and physical fitness. The graduates successfully made the trek from Masindi to Kaweweta in two and a half days to prove their physical fitness,” said Brig Gen Wolimbwa.
The Cadet Officers were drawn from UPDF Services, Mali and Tanzania. 101 of whom were female. To engender the UPDF agenda of professionalisation of the UPDF, the participants were holders of UCE to Master’s Degrees in various professional trades.
Present at the function were; the Minister of Works and Transport, Hon Gen Katumba Wamala; Minister of State for Veteran Affairs, Hon Huda Abason Oleru; Members of Parliament; Lt Gen Charles Okidi, Commander Air Force, H.E Maddu Diaro; the Malian Ambassador to Uganda; Maj Gen Oumar Diarra Chief of General Staff of Malian Armed Forces; Maj Gen Marko Gaguti Chief of Personnel and Administration Tanzania Peoples Defence Force; Generals, Officers and Local leaders.