The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has extolled its Indian counterparts for the tremendous forensic training they have provided to Ugandan officers and soldiers.
Through the Chief of Joint Staff, Maj Gen Jack Bakasumba, the UPDF acknowledged the Indian Armed Forces’ invaluable support in multiple areas of training, including forensics.
“Thank you most sincerely for the training support you are giving us. We truly appreciate it and do not take it for granted. A friend in need is a friend indeed,” said Maj Gen Bakasumba.
He made the remarks as the UPDF bid farewell to four Indian military officers who completed a two-year tour of duty in Uganda. The ceremony took place at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MODVA) Headquarters in Mbuya.
During the event, Maj Gen Bakasumba and the Indian team, led by Brig Gen Bhupendra Singh, discussed ways to deepen military cooperation, particularly in training and infrastructure development.
Brig Gen Singh and his team served in various capacities within the UPDF’s departments of Operations, Communications, and the Air Force.
The four Indian senior military officers are expected to return to India later this month, while a new team of Indian officers is set to arrive in Uganda soon.
“On behalf of the people of India, I would like to express our gratitude for all the assistance we received from the Office of the Chief of Joint Staff during our stay here,” said Brig Gen Bhupendra.
According to the UPDF’s Defence and Public Information Department, led by Maj Gen Felix Kulayigye, the Indian officers were based at the Senior Command and Staff College–Kimaka, where they played a significant role in instruction and training across multiple departments.
The UPDF noted that Uganda and India share a long-standing defence relationship, which includes the deployment of Indian military training teams in Uganda, training opportunities for Ugandan officers in India, and ongoing professional exchanges aimed at enhancing mutual capacity.