UPDF officers have recently completed a rigorous six-month training program in Artillery and anti-aircraft operations at Olilim School of Field Art and Air Defense in Katakwi district. The training, which commenced in July 2023, involved 73 artillery and 92 anti-aircraft officers, with only four trainees withdrawing due to incompetence.
The primary objective of the training was to instill leadership skills, command capabilities, and expertise in gunnery among junior officers. Additionally, the trainees acquired proficiency in physical fitness, professional competence, and high moral standards to qualify as adept Gun Position Officers and Troop Commanders.
Colonel Ali Kiiza Kasauli, the current Director of Anti Aircraft, emphasized the importance of hard work, discipline, and the avoidance of reckless behavior among the graduates. He acknowledged the challenges in filling command vacancies due to retirements, foreign deployments, age-related issues, illness, and deaths among senior officers. Kasauli highlighted the creation of new units, all of which require young officers to address existing gaps.
Furthermore, Kasauli commended the communities of Napak and Katakwi districts for their cooperation and tolerance in avoiding designated firing areas during training exercises.
Major General Don Nabasa, the UPDF 3rd Division Commander, advised the trainees to pursue additional technical courses to enhance their equipment maintenance skills. Nabasa emphasized that acquiring more knowledge would enable officers to effectively command multiple troops while maintaining mental well-being. He also encouraged officers to engage in continuous reading to stay abreast of advancements in artillery technology and combat equipment.
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