UPDF Challenges Battle Group 48 to Uphold Somalia Legacy

Col Moses Nabaasa, the Commandant of the International Peace Support Operations Training Centre (IPSO-TC), officially opened the Battle Group 48 (BG 48) Pre-Deployment Training in Singo, Nakaseke District, on June 10, 2026, marking the start of a 16-week journey towards operational readiness.

The commandant welcomed the trainees to what he described as a “mission-shaping ground”, where discipline is non-negotiable and excellence is the standard.

He challenged BG 48 to embrace the core values of discipline, hard work, teamwork and professionalism, reminding them that success in peace support operations is built long before deployment.

He energised the contingent with the now familiar rallying call of “Kisanja No Sleep”, stressing that the training period demands full alertness, resilience and commitment, day and night, without shortcuts.

The commandant also highlighted the proud legacy of the Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF), particularly its performance in Somalia.

He said Uganda’s international reputation in peace support operations has been earned through sacrifice, rigorous training and professionalism, adding that BG 48 must not only match but surpass that standard.

Earlier, the Chief Instructor, Col D Watasa, urged trainees to take every lesson seriously, cooperate fully with instructors and maximise all training opportunities available at Camp Singo.

The opening ceremony also introduced the training team and support staff who will guide BG 48 through combat readiness drills, leadership development, tactical exercises, mission planning and force protection skills over the next 16 weeks.

Col Nabaasa emphasised that sports and physical training would play a key role in building endurance, unity and mental toughness, turning the battle group into a cohesive and mission-ready force.

He concluded by declaring the programme open, signalling the start of the intensive training period.

“I hereby declare Battle Group 48 Pre-Deployment Training officially open. Let us remain disciplined, work hard, and uphold teamwork and professionalism. Kisanja No Sleep,” he announced.