General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), took center stage at the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds yesterday, presiding over the inaugural CDF Inter Forces Drills Competition.
In his speech, Gen Kainerugaba outlined his vision for a modern, professional UPDF while pledging transformative improvements to soldiers’ welfare, captivating military personnel and civilians in attendance.
The event showcased the UPDF’s finest, with soldiers demonstrating precision, teamwork, and discipline through impeccable drills.
Gen Kainerugaba lauded the participants, declaring, “You all did well, each and every one of you. This spectacle has showcased the best that UPDF has to offer.”
He announced that joint drill competitions will now be a regular fixture to enhance synergy and readiness across the forces, stating, “These drills foster order, precision, and readiness, which are vital for our armed forces.”
A cornerstone of his address was a commitment to soldiers’ welfare, focusing on accommodation, healthcare, nutrition, transport, and education for their children.
“Our words as commanders will match our actions. We are working hard to improve soldiers’ welfare—where they sleep, work, feed, access medical care, dress, move, and how their children access education,” he affirmed.
Recent efforts, including securing 50 billion shillings for new soldier accommodations, underscore this promise.
Gen Kainerugaba emphasized public inclusion, noting that opening the event to civilians was meant to foster appreciation for the UPDF’s discipline.
“Military drills are a universal language, performed by the world’s best militaries. We invited civilians to witness the pride of our forces,” he said, referencing global military traditions like those of the British and Russian armies.
Spectators were thrilled by the display of unity and skill. “Gen Muhoozi’s leadership and focus on soldiers’ lives show the UPDF’s strength and heart,” said Joseph Mutebi, a local attendee.
Under Gen Kainerugaba’s leadership, praised by President Yoweri Museveni for its “lethality and innovation,” the UPDF is poised for a future of excellence and public trust.
The Inter Forces Drills Competition not only celebrated military prowess but also cemented Gen Kainerugaba’s commitment to a stronger, more compassionate UPDF, setting an inspiring tone for Uganda’s armed forces.