By Dr. Kivumbi Earnest Benjamin, L.H.D . (Hon.) Update at 1449 EAT on Monday 3rd November 2025

WAKISO, Uganda — The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Marine Brigade has passed out 168 new marines after successfully completing a four-month Marine Basic Induction Course at the Marine Training School in Kalangalo, Wakiso District.

Presiding over the ceremony, Brig. Gen. Michael Nyarwa, Commander of the Marine Brigade, commended the graduates for their discipline, endurance, and determination throughout the rigorous training. He described their transformation from trainees into professional mariners as a reflection of resilience, teamwork, and patriotism.

“You arrived as trainees and leave as mariners — disciplined, skilled, and ready to serve,” Brig. Gen. Nyarwa said. “You have endured the rigours of swimming and combat water survival, mastered navigation and tactics, and proven that determination and discipline yield success.”

The training, which began on June 30, 2025, focused on developing critical maritime competencies including navigation, communication, small boat handling, tactics, intelligence, first aid, physical fitness, and maritime law.

Brig. Gen. Nyarwa reminded the graduates that professional excellence must be anchored in integrity and moral character.

“Skill without character is a hollow vessel,” he cautioned. “Uphold the highest standards of discipline and ethical conduct. Respect your uniform, your comrades, and the communities you will serve.”

He also applauded the Commandant, Chief Instructor, and training staff for their commitment to nurturing a competent and professional marine force capable of safeguarding Uganda’s territorial waters.

Col. David Kararira, Commandant of the Marine Training School, congratulated the new marines on completing the course and urged them to remain disciplined and focused as they embark on their service journey.

“Finishing this course is a new beginning,” Col. Kararira said. “Opportunities await those who remain disciplined, focused, and ambitious.”

He further commended the Marine Brigade leadership for continuously strengthening the school’s capacity and enhancing its role as a key centre for maritime operations training in Uganda.

The pass-out ceremony was attended by senior and junior UPDF officers, local leaders, parents, guardians, and members of the surrounding community, who celebrated the new marines’ milestone achievement.