CDF Kainerugaba lauds UPDF Air Force achievements

NAKASONGOLA - The Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has praised the significant strides made by the Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) Air Force.

Presiding over the graduation ceremony at the Uganda Air Force College at Nakasongola on Thursday, the CDF remarked that what began as a guerrilla force without an air capability is now transforming into one of Africa’s most promising air forces.

Over 500 trainees graduated, including pilots, pilot instructors, aircraft operators, and engineers, all now equipped to contribute to the UPDF’s professionalisation drive.

The Air Force College is located near Nakasongola Air Base with a 3.6km runway. 

In his address to the graduates, the CDF also emphasised the importance of excellence, urging pilots to master every aspect of their aircraft and challenging them to rank among the best on the continent.

The Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, acknowledging the national anthem during the graduation ceremony of trainee pilots at UPDF Air Force College, Nakasongola on June 03 2025. (Courtesy Photos)

A release from his office stated that during the ceremony, Gen. Kainerugaba reiterated his warning against misuse of UPDF funds, noting that there will be no mercy for the corrupt. 

His statement, according to the media release, attracted applause from guests and graduates.

While at the college, the CDF also commissioned several infrastructure projects and housing units for the soldiers.

In the brief remarks, Lt. Gen. Charles Okidi, Commander of the Air Force, thanked the CDF for his leadership in advancing Uganda’s air capabilities.

Relatedly, Brig. Gen. James Muhwezi, Commandant of the Uganda Air Force College, highlighted the graduates’ readiness to serve and acknowledged the CDF’s support in infrastructure development at the training facility.

CDF Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba in a group photo at Uganda Air Force College at Nakasongola.

Factfile

The Uganda Air Force College, located in Nakasongola District, offers specialised training programs. These include a 36-month course for MI24 attack helicopter engineers and a six-month Officer Basic Induction course.

The college also hosts ideological symposia for officers, focusing on discipline, leadership and ideology.