The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Motorised Infantry Division has started a refresher training course for newly recruited soldiers of Intake 3/2026 at the Division Headquarters in Nakasongola District.

The course is aimed at consolidating the soldiers’ military skills and preparing them for future operational assignments, according to the UPDF.

Speaking at the opening of the course, Motorised Infantry Division Commander Major General Charles Byanyima described the training as an important part of the soldiers’ professional development and career building.

Maj Gen Byanyima urged the trainees to embrace the UPDF’s ideology, values and discipline while paying close attention to the instruction provided by their trainers.

“Embrace the UPDF ideology, values and discipline. Adhere to what your instructors are going to teach you so that you can effectively perform your professional military assignments,” Byanyima said.

The commander also cautioned the newly recruited soldiers against reckless lifestyles and encouraged them to make health and physical fitness a priority throughout their military careers.

“Remember, health is wealth. Sweat a lot during training rather than shed blood on the battlefield,” he said.

The Division Operations and Training Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Ronald Taremwa Kamuntu, said the refresher programme would cover several areas, including drills, skills at arms, political education and psychosocial education.

Lt Col Kamuntu urged the trainees to appreciate and apply the skills acquired during the course, saying the training would help equip them with the military knowledge required for their professional duties.

The refresher course is part of the Motorised Infantry Division’s training activities designed to strengthen the skills and preparedness of its personnel. Earlier in March 2026, the division conducted a 30-kilometre route march in Nakasongola as part of efforts to strengthen physical fitness, discipline, teamwork and operational readiness among its personnel.

The opening ceremony was attended by the Division Administration Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Divine Lawrence Ssebaggala, heads of departments, senior and junior officers, and instructors.

The latest training comes as the UPDF continues to use specialised and refresher courses to develop military skills among personnel in its different formations.