The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) College of Logistics and Engineering (COLE) in Magamaga recently celebrated the graduation of officers and Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) who successfully completed key professional courses. A total of 47 officers, including 11 women and four from Rwanda, along with 53 NCOs, completed four months and one week of training in the Logistics Staff Course and the Basic Arms Management Course.
Brigadier General Kefa Nangeso, Dean of Studies at the National Defence College – Uganda, represented the Chief of Joint Staff, Lieutenant General Jack Agonza Bakasumba, as guest of honour. He praised the graduates for their achievements and highlighted the importance of excellence in the UPDF. Brig Gen Nangeso encouraged graduates to share their knowledge with colleagues to boost efficiency and commended the practical demonstrations presented during the ceremony.
The event was also attended by Rwanda’s Defence Attaché to Uganda, Colonel Emmanuel Ruzindana, who thanked UPDF leadership for training Rwandan Defence Forces (RDF) officers. He noted that COLE has trained 31 RDF officers to date, reflecting the strong military cooperation between Uganda and Rwanda. Colonel Ruzindana pledged Rwanda’s continued collaboration in the defence sector.
COLE Commandant Colonel Chris Kyanku explained the significance of the two programs. He said the courses develop combat-ready logistics officers capable of supporting forces in both peace and wartime at brigade and division levels. The training also equips participants with skills to manage arms and ammunition efficiently while fostering analytical thinking, professionalism, and a deep understanding of military operations.
Several graduates received special recognition for outstanding performance. Captain Pius Katumuhimbise Mutatiina was named overall best student, Lieutenant Eunice Nandudu earned the award for best academic performer, and Lieutenant Richard Iradukunda of the RDF was honored as the best allied student.
The graduation ceremony celebrated not only the individual achievements of the participants but also the growing strength of Uganda’s military training institutions. The skills and knowledge gained during the courses are expected to improve the performance of the graduates’ respective units and the broader defence force.
With the successful completion of these programs, the UPDF demonstrates its commitment to professionalism, operational efficiency, and regional cooperation, ensuring that future military leaders are well-prepared to serve both national and allied interests.
