Maj. Gen. Takirwa tasks troops on ensuring Ugandans' safety

_________________________

MOROTO - The Deputy Commander of Land Forces, Maj. Gen. Francis Takirwa, has urged soldiers to ensure the safety of Ugandans since the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) is capable of tackling both territorial and regional threats. 

He made the remarks on Monday, January 22, during the pass out of over 500 troops including 180 females who completed a three-month refresher course at the third Infantry Division headquarters, Moroto Barracks. 

Takirwa encouraged the troops to take responsibility and prepare to take up new assignments.

He added that the additional skills attained and exhibited during field demonstration exercises remain a clear testimony of better operational performance. 

“The best non-commissioned officers who performed exceptionally well should be followed up and nurtured further to take up bigger roles in units,” Takirwa advised.
 
He advised the troops to adopt the three core elements of humanity which include maintenance of conscious discipline, patience, and commitment, to enable them to prevail through tasks. Takirwa also said it is an important part of career growth. 

Takirwa encouraged the troops to take responsibility and prepare to take up new assignments.

Takirwa commended the Division Commander and the joint security forces for the continued cooperation and coordination of disarmament operation together with the local leadership of the Karamoja sub-region to consolidate the achievements. 

Maj. Gen. Don William Nabasa, the UPDF 3rd Division Commander, pointed out that the intent of conducting a refresher course in the formation was to enhance the troops’ capacity and customise them to the Karamoja operational environment. 

He urged the soldiers to be loyal, patient, and love their job. He cautioned the soldiers against desertion and to desist from lobbying for a soft landing. 

The Division Operations and Training Officer, Col James Barigye Rukundo, said that the trainees had enhanced their military skills, and knowledge and were ready to effectively execute their responsibilities. 

Rukundo thanked the Commander Land Forces, and Chief of Training and Recruitment for their continued support and strategic guidance on operations and training matters. 
Soldiers who performed exceptionally were recognised and awarded gifts. 

The training package emphasised but was not limited to marksmanship and weapon handling, minor tactics, political education, and health education among others. 

Present at the function were the Resident District Commissioner of Moroto George William Wopuwa, Assistant Commissioner of Police Francis Chemusto, Brigade Commanders, UPDF Senior and Junior officers, Uganda Police Force, Internal Security Organisation, and Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU).