The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) on Tuesday graduated 48 soldiers following the completion of a training program near Juba, the capital of South Sudan.
The troops are part of Uganda’s deployment in Bilnyang village, Mangala Payam, amid renewed tensions between South Sudanese President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar. The deployment began in March following a spike in political unrest.
Col. Benard R. Kashemeza, commander of the UPDF battle group, presided over the ceremony and praised the graduates for their dedication. He emphasized that the training was essential for enhancing operational readiness, combat efficiency, and mental preparedness.
“Training is not for formality but is a vital means for building confidence and ensuring the mission is successful,” he said. “It prepares your body and mind for that time when it comes as warriors to perform your duty.”
Col. Kashemeza also thanked Brig. Gen. Anthony Lukwago Mbuusi, commander of the Joint Task Force, for his support during the program, as well as the instructors for their commitment.
Maj. Nicholas Mutatiina, the battle group’s operations officer, encouraged the graduates to uphold the discipline and cooperation they demonstrated during training. He also acknowledged the leadership of Brig. Gen. Mbuusi and the contribution of the training staff.
The graduation ceremony was attended by several senior UPDF officers, including Lt. Cols. H.T. Akiniagi, P.K. Amagule, C.K. Mawandri, and Osbert Katungi.
South Sudan and Uganda have long maintained close military ties. A local youth group, Awan Chan, recently claimed that Ugandan soldiers stationed in South Sudan receive $200 per day, though that figure has not been independently verified.