Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) troops in South Sudan under Operation Mlinzi wa Kimya (the Silent Guardian) have commenced a three-week refresher arms course aimed at enhancing combat readiness and operational effectiveness.
According to the UPDF, the training was opened by the Joint Task Force Commander, Major General Anthony Lukwago Mbuusi, who emphasized the importance of operational readiness, commitment, cooperation, and professionalism in achieving mission objectives.
“Training is not a punishment. It is about sharpening your skills and ensuring that you have the maximum capabilities required to achieve your targets,” he said.
Meanwhile, Col. Francis Aragamoi, the Battle Group Commander, urged troops to maintain financial discipline and practice responsible resource management while commending the UPDF leadership for its continued support to Operation Mlinzi wa Kimya.
The UPDF has been deployed in South Sudan under Operation Mlinzi wa Kimya since 2025, following a request by South Sudanese President Salva Kiir to his Ugandan counterpart, President Yoweri Museveni, for military support to stabilize the country after renewed fighting.
South Sudan, which is slated to hold a general election on 22 December this year, is widely considered not ready for the polls due to critical logistical, financial, and security deficits.
International envoys, including the UN and the African Union, warn that preparations are inadequate, citing a lack of voter registration, severe funding gaps, and unresolved security reforms required by the 2018 peace agreement.
and then