Thirty UPDF marines unit graduate

MAYUGE – Thirty soldiers from the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Marine unit successfully graduated from a rigorous three-month Coxswain Marine course at the Ntokolo Marine Base in Magamaga Town Council, Mayuge district.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony Monday October 1st, 2024, Brig Gen Alex Olupot, Joint Staff Training, and Doctrine underscored the importance of continuous training in line with the UPDF’s professionalisation efforts, a commitment made by the President of Uganda and Commander-in-Chief, H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. “The Commander-in-Chief promised a professional UPDF to Ugandans that is capable of operating in all aspects like on Land, in Air, and on the water to guarantee Uganda’s security, what you are witnessing today is a manifestation of that pledge,” Brig Gen Olupot remarked.

CAPTION – Some of the graduates on a Marines’ boat on Lake Victoria in Mayuge. (Courtesy photo)

He encouraged the graduates to remain committed to lifelong learning, highlighting the expectation of further courses to sharpen their skills for enhanced service delivery. Brig Gen Olupot also commended the positive feedback from local communities, a reflection of the UPDF’s adherence to its core values as outlined in its doctrine.

He further emphasised the vital relationship between the UPDF and civilians, drawing an analogy: “You civilians are the water, and we, the UPDF, are the fish. Just as fish cannot survive without water, we cannot survive without you.”

Brig Gen Michael Nyarwa, Commander of the Marines Brigade, hailed the strategic importance of the newly acquired skills, noting that this foundational course would pave the way for more advanced training in marine operations. He expressed his appreciation for the ongoing guidance from the Commander-in-Chief in shaping a professional military force.

CAPTION – Brig Gen Michael Nyarwa, Commander of the Marines Brigade Monday 1st October. (Courtesy photo)

Resident District Commissioner Thomas Matembe commended the Marines for their exemplary relations with the local community, praising their skillset as evidence of UPDF’s readiness to protect Uganda.

The top performers of the course were recognised:

• Pte Ogoi Micheal (Best Coxswain)
• Pte Abuzireki Martine (Best in Academics)
• Pte Waligo Stephen (Best Leadership)

Distinguished guests at the ceremony included Col Erisa Ssejabi, Col George Twekwase, Hon. Bagire Aggrey Henry (MP), and local leaders.