The Special Forces Command (SFC) Deputy Commander Brig. Gen. Asaph Mweteise Nyakikuru has emphasized the importance of adaptability and strategic planning in military operations, particularly in ensuring the effective protection of Very Very Important Persons (VVIPs).
Speaking on October 18, 2024, at the VVIP Training School (VVIPTS-SK) in Sera Kasenyi, Brig. Gen. Nyakikuru stressed that operatives must be prepared to quickly adjust during high-stakes situations.
"Adaptability means knowing how to react when a bullet is fired by the enemy and adjusting accordingly. It is crucial for our VVIP operatives to adapt to such situations," he said during the pass-out ceremony of officers who completed the VVIP commander’s planning course.
Congratulating the officers, Brig. Gen. Nyakikuru commended their newly acquired skills in VVIP protection, praising their impressive performance after just ten weeks of training. "You have been protecting the President, but this course propels you into a more specialized domain of VVIP protection," he noted.
He also thanked President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and Commander-in-Chief of the Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) for the leadership that has transformed the army into a formidable force. "You are a force multiplier. With your education and perspective, I have no doubt you will do an excellent job," he added.
The course, which ran from August 12 to October 18, 2024, included 148 officers—20 females and 128 males. It aimed to enhance leadership, operational management, and tactical skills for safeguarding VVIPs. Topics included counterterrorism, military law, financial literacy, and tactical combat.
Col. John Bosco Asinguza, Commander of the 1st Special Force Group, echoed Brig. Gen. Nyakikuru's sentiments, highlighting the officers' role in ensuring the safety of key figures such as the President. "This achievement underscores your responsibility in protecting our Commander-in-Chief, the President of Uganda, and the nation," Col. Asinguza stated.
The best-performing officers were recognized for their achievements, including 2Lt. Isaac Mango, named best overall student, and 2Lt. Paulina Nabonge, awarded best overall female officer.
The ceremony was attended by commanding officers, senior and junior officers, and other dignitaries.
