The Deputy Chief of Defence Forces of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), Lieutenant General Sam Okiding, has praised the 4 Infantry Division for their high level of discipline, coordination, and readiness as they prepare for the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Drill Competition set to take place on May 12, 2025, at Kololo Independence Grounds in Kampala.
During an official visit on April 18, 2025 to the division headquarters in Gulu, Gen Okiding observed the troops’ drill rehearsals and expressed satisfaction with their precision and teamwork. He said the level of performance by the soldiers was a clear reflection of the professionalism and commitment of the division.
“Parade is not a form of punishment it’s a symbol of readiness and pride,” A well-drilled unit shows discipline and focus. This is how success begins in the military,” Gen Okiding emphasized.
This year’s drill competition is being held under the theme “Disciplined Force for a Better Uganda,” a message that underscores the UPDF’s mission to maintain professionalism, order, and national pride through well-trained forces.
Gen Okiding also reaffirmed the UPDF leadership’s support for the drill competitions and the participating formations across the country. He stressed the importance of such events in building teamwork, discipline, and operational excellence within the force.
He encouraged commanders and troops to continue embracing modern methods of training and improving on areas like posture, footwork, and equipment handling to succeed at the national level.
“What I have seen today in the 4 Infantry Division is not just practice it is progress,” Your level of preparation reflects positively on the UPDF as a whole,” he said.
The competition will include sword and crop stick drills, foot drill displays, and brass band performances, showcasing the ceremonial strength and discipline of Uganda’s armed forces.
Also present during the visit were Brig Gen Jackson Kayanja, the Deputy Commander of the 4 Infantry Division; Col Innocent Tukashaba; and several staff officers, who briefed the Deputy CDF on the division’s training progress and current operations.
The visit comes at a time when the UPDF is conducting intensive field and shooting drills in Gulu, part of its broader strategy to maintain readiness and alertness for any operational assignments both within and outside the country.
With morale high and the troops focused, the 4 Infantry Division looks to make a strong impression at the national drill competition a platform that not only celebrates military excellence but also reinforces unity and pride across all UPDF formations.
