Maj. Gen. David Mugisha, the Commander of the Special Forces Command (SFC), has emphasized the importance of continuous training in shaping a modern and capable military force.
Speaking at the pass-out ceremony for 98 officers at the Airborne Training School-Amilcar Cabral (ATSAC) in Nakasongola, Maj. Gen. Mugisha reiterated President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s stance on military preparedness.
“Training is the backbone of a military. Without training, you can never have a competent force. A modern army is built on ideology, discipline, and skills,” he quoted the President.
The six-month Sub-Unit Commanders Course prepared officers—among them 14 females—for leadership roles in Special Forces operations. Maj. Gen. Mugisha stressed that ATSAC must evolve into a center of excellence focused on intellectual development, physical fitness, and leadership training.
He commended Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Chief of Defence Forces and Senior Presidential Advisor on Special Operations, for his leadership in strengthening the UPDF. He praised Gen. Kainerugaba’s dedication, courage, and commitment to service through rigorous training.
Maj. Gen. Mugisha urged the officers to lead with integrity and uphold the values learned during their training. He warned against subversive behaviors such as rumormongering, sectarianism, and corruption.
Lt. Col. Micki Paul Lokut, the Director of Training and Doctrine-SFC, described the course as critical in preparing young officers for demanding operations.
The Commandant of ATSAC, Maj. Richard Mukwaya, praised the graduates for their resilience. “The course was designed to challenge and expand your tactical and leadership skills,” he said.
Top-performing officers included 2Lt. Matthew Ikondere (Best Overall), Lt. Gordon Andama (Best in Leadership), 2Lt. Vivina Praise Asasira (Best Female), Lt. Ibrahim Luyimbazi (Best in Field), and 2Lt. Raymond Tumusiime (Best in Academics).
Dignitaries at the ceremony included Retired Lieutenant Sam Kigula, the Chairman LCV-Nakasongola, Nakasongola Cantonment Commander Col. David Mugisha, brigade commanders, directors, and other senior officers.
