Gen Muhoozi Commits to Transforming UPDF Through Welfare and Professional Reforms
Kampala, Uganda – Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba has vowed to transform the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) into a highly professional and modern army by prioritizing soldier welfare and structured military education.
Speaking at the CDF Inter-Forces Drill Competition held at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds on Tuesday, Muhoozi emphasized that the UPDF leadership is committed to matching words with action—beginning with tangible improvements in areas like housing, feeding, healthcare, transport, and access to education for soldiers and their families.
“We are already working hard to improve soldiers’ lives—how they sleep, eat, access healthcare, move, and even how their children receive education,” he said.
A New Era of Military Training and Excellence
Gen. Muhoozi also highlighted the military’s renewed focus on professional education, stressing the importance of enhanced training for recruits, non-commissioned officers, and other ranks. He said such focus would elevate the entire defense force to international standards.
“Within the UPDF, we’re investing in the professional development of every soldier—from basic training to advanced officer courses,” he added.
The general’s statements align with broader efforts to address longstanding issues such as low pay and substandard living conditions within Uganda’s armed forces.
Showcasing Skill and Discipline Through Drills
The CDF Inter-Forces Drills Competition 2025 was described as the first of its kind, showcasing the precision, teamwork, and discipline of Uganda’s military units. Muhoozi noted that military drills are a universal military tradition, drawing inspiration from top global armies such as those of Britain, China, Russia, and India.
He praised the event for instilling values like discipline, time management, self-control, and camaraderie, and encouraged unit commanders to rotate drill participants to spread these values across the entire UPDF.
“This marks the dawn of a new era in the UPDF. We are committed to excellence across all sectors,” Muhoozi declared.
The event was open to the public, allowing civilians to appreciate the military’s evolving professionalism.
Winners of the Drill Competitions
- Overall Winner: Internal Security Organization (ISO) – UGX 10M
- Best Creative Drill & Cultural Integration: Special Forces Command (SFC) – UGX 10M
- First Runners-up in Cultural Integration: 5th Infantry Division
- Best Drill Commander (Officer): Lt. D. Asere
- Best Drill Commander (NCO): Sgt. Mohammad Wasswa (ISO)
- Best Pro Stick Team: Air Force
- Best Cane Stick Team: 3rd Infantry Division
- Best Sword Drill Team: ISO
Dignitaries in Attendance
The event was graced by military attachés from countries such as Russia, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, Rwanda, and others. Ugandan dignitaries included Ministers Balaam Barugahara and Lillian Aber, NRM Secretary General Richard Todwong, senior UPDF commanders, and former IGP Gen. Kale Kayihura.
Deputy CDF Lt. Gen. Samuel Okiding praised the UPDF’s operational readiness, while Lt. Gen. (rtd) Nakibus Lakara, the chief umpire, hailed the army’s discipline and performance.