Hon. Sarah Mateke Nyirabashitsi, Minister of State for Defence, emphasized the importance of joint training among sister militaries, stating that it fosters a common understanding and approach to international and cross-border security challenges. These challenges include terrorism, transnational crimes, natural disasters, cyber threats, and money laundering.
Hon. Mateke made these remarks during the graduation ceremony of 50 Senior Officers from Course 19/23-24 at the Senior Command and Staff College (SCSC) Kimaka in Jinja City. This cohort joins 726 alumni Senior Officers from the college, comprising personnel from the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) and militaries of sister states.
The Minister stressed that Uganda’s future depends on its ability to address emerging security demands. She reaffirmed the Defence Ministry’s commitment to ensuring national defence and security, which is crucial for the country’s social and economic transformation. “The Defence Ministry is tasked with confronting both military and non-military threats, linking transnational efforts and manpower efficiencies across borders to sustain peace and stability,” she noted.
Hon. Mateke also highlighted the role of security in promoting economic growth and development. “Security is a critical pillar of development that must be maintained to address evolving security threats,” she said.
She pointed out that SCSC Kimaka plays a vital role in the UPDF’s Human Capital Development, as outlined in the National Development Plan III. She reminded the graduands that leadership involves inspiring others, not just giving orders. “Make the most of your skills as you return and shape decisions for the good of the country,” she urged.
The State Defence Minister commended the UPDF for its commitment to patriotism and Pan-Africanism. She noted that the knowledge and skills acquired by the graduates would be invaluable in addressing complex security challenges. Modern security and defence issues, as highlighted by President Museveni, transcend national borders, necessitating cooperative responses beyond territorial boundaries.
Lt Gen Samuel Okiding, Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, represented the Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba at the event. He emphasized the importance of continuous training to enhance the professionalisation and modernisation of the UPDF. He expressed gratitude to President Museveni for providing training opportunities to military personnel, from the Kaweweta Recruit Training School to Bihanga and the National Defence College – Uganda. The establishment of the ‘Uganda National Military University’ was highlighted as the next milestone in completing the training framework.
Lt Gen Okiding stated that training equips graduates with the knowledge and skills to confront modern warfare challenges and develop strategies to address them at national, regional, and international levels. He congratulated the graduates on their resilience and hard work, also appreciating their spouses for supporting their families during the training.
Maj Gen George Igumba, Commandant of SCSC Kimaka, congratulated the graduates, noting that the skills acquired would significantly enhance their ability to address evolving global threats, particularly in the realm of cyber warfare and artificial intelligence. “The past 47 weeks have been filled with learning and sharing experiences. Use this knowledge to continue growing,” he urged.
The graduates received certificates of completion, and the State Defence Minister awarded them Passed Staff College (psc) badges. The top students also received prizes and daggers, while the Directing staff received ‘psc+’ awards.
Previously, on June 25, 2024, at State House Entebbe, the President and Commander-in-Chief of the UPDF urged the graduates to safeguard the country against the politics of identity, which undermines prosperity, and instead embrace common interests.
The graduates included Senior Officers from Burundi, Kenya, Malawi, Rwanda, South Africa, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda.
Esteemed guests included Lt Gen Charles Okidi, Commander UPDF Air Force; Maj Gen Henry Masiko, Joint Staff Political Commissariat; Maj Gen Don Nabasa, Commander 3 Infantry Division; Brig Gen David Gonyi, Chief of Staff UPDF Air Force; Brig Gen Godwin Karugaba, Joint Staff Logistics; Brig Gen James Kinalwa, Joint Staff Human Resource Management; and other UPDF Generals and senior officers.
Additionally, diplomats, political and religious leaders, and external Directing staff, including Dr. SK Simba, Electoral Commissioner; Dr. Julius Omona; Dr. Phillip Kasaija; and Dr. Margaret Kaawa, were present.
