Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Muhoozi Kainerugaba has called on newly commissioned military officers to uphold discipline, integrity, and Pan-African unity, warning that corruption is a “betrayal of duty” and has no place in the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).
Gen Muhoozi made the remarks on Saturday, October 4, while presiding over the commissioning of new officer cadets at the Uganda Military Academy in Kabamba, Mubende District — a historic site where the National Resistance Army (NRA) began its liberation struggle 44 years ago.
The CDF praised the UPDF’s transformation under President Yoweri Museveni’s leadership, describing it as a continental “force for good” that continues to play a vital role in regional peacekeeping missions.
“In South Sudan, the DRC, Somalia, and the Central African Republic — wherever duty calls — the UPDF stands ready to serve Africa,” Gen Muhoozi said.
He noted that the UPDF has grown beyond defending national borders to contributing to regional security and socio-economic transformation.
Gen Muhoozi highlighted the Pan-African identity of the graduating class, which included officer cadets from Rwanda, Tanzania, South Sudan, Kenya, and the Central African Republic.
“This spirit of brotherhood reflects our Commander-in-Chief’s vision for African unity and solidarity,” he said.
The ceremony symbolized the UPDF’s expanding role as a partner in regional defence cooperation.
In a strong message to the new officers, Gen Muhoozi emphasized that corruption erodes the army’s honor and discipline.
“Corruption is abhorrent and a desecration of duty,” he warned. “We will continue taking decisive action against those who misuse public resources.”
He urged the cadets to lead by example, remain physically fit, ideologically clear, and always place national interest above personal gain.
The CDF also highlighted recent reforms aimed at improving soldier welfare, including better pay, new housing projects, and the upcoming UPDF Referral Hospital. He reaffirmed the army’s commitment to modernization through continuous training and equipment upgrades to meet emerging security threats.
The ceremony was attended by President Yoweri Museveni, senior government officials, and top military commanders.
Distinguished guests included representatives from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst—Gen Muhoozi’s alma mater—such as Maj. Gen. Ben Kite, his former instructor, and Mr. Sam Instone, his classmate.
Other dignitaries present included Defence Minister Jacob Oboth Oboth, State Minister for Defence Oleru Huda, Permanent Secretary Rose Byengoma, and Chief of Joint Staff Lt. Gen. Jack Bakasumba.
Gen Muhoozi concluded by reminding the new officers that their commissioning marked the beginning of a lifelong commitment to service.
“We will continue to sharpen you until you become the best warriors and commanders out there,” he said.
