At a recent ceremony held at the 10 Marine Battalion Headquarters in Entebbe, Brig Gen. Asaph Nyakikuru, Deputy Commander of the Special Force Command (SFC) and Commander of Special Force Group 2 (2SFG), addressed newly promoted army officers. He urged them to intensify their commitment and dedication, highlighting that the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has high expectations of them.
“Promotion represents not just a step up in rank but a significant milestone in your military career,” Brig Gen. Nyakikuru stated. “It is a testament to your dedication, hard work, mastery of your duties, and leadership skills.”
Brig. Gen. Nyakikuru advised those awaiting promotion to trust in divine timing, drawing a parallel with biblical teachings where promotion is seen as a form of divine favor. “God’s timing is always perfect, surpassing our human understanding of timing,” he remarked.
He reminded the newly promoted officers of the substantial responsibilities they now shoulder. “You are now seen as sources of wisdom by your subordinates. It will be your role to provide solutions, encourage initiative, and lead with responsibility,” he added before congratulating them on their achievement.
Col. Wilson Bagonza, Commander of Special Force Group 3 (3SFG), expressed gratitude to President and Commander-In-Chief of the UPDF for his visionary leadership, which has transformed the army into a respected and effective force. “Our ability to hold such events today is a testament to the stability and progress achieved under his leadership,” Col. Bagonza noted.
He also thanked Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba for revolutionizing military training by integrating special training programs, which led to the establishment of the commando unit within the SFC. Additionally, he acknowledged the continued support of Maj Gen. David Mugisha, the Commander of SFC, for his ongoing support of training initiatives.
Col. John Mango Baraza, Director of Human Resource Management for SFC, presented 104 officers who were recently promoted by the President. The promotions included the confirmation of one acting Colonel to full Colonel, one Lieutenant Colonel promoted to Colonel, two Majors elevated to Lieutenant Colonel, nine Captains promoted to Major, seven Lieutenants to Captain, and 83 Second Lieutenants who were upgraded to the rank of Lieutenant.
On behalf of the newly promoted officers, Lt Col. Elisabeth Agaba expressed gratitude to the Commander-In-Chief for the opportunity to serve in the UPDF. She acknowledged that while they may not be the best from their communities, they have been given a platform to excel. Lt Col. Agaba also thanked the CDF and the CSFC for their guidance and called on the officers to remain disciplined, loyal, and patriotic.
The ceremony was attended by various high-ranking officials, including Group and Brigade Commanders, Directors, Commanding Officers, Commandants, staff members, senior and junior officers, and the spouses of the newly promoted officers