Col. Bagonza Commends President Museveni for Strengthening UPDF through Training and Equipment Support
The Commander of the Three Special Forces Group, Col. Wilson Bagonza, has applauded President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the Commander-in-Chief of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), for his steadfast commitment to the training and equipping of the army—efforts that continue to enhance the operational capability of the force.
Col. Bagonza made these remarks on Monday, June 23, 2025, while officiating the opening of the 3rd edition of the annual Special Forces Command (SFC) Inter-Unit Rifle Competition. The event was held at the Fort Samora Machel Special Forces Training School in Kaweweta, Nakaseke District, where Col. Bagonza represented Maj. Gen. David Mugisha, the SFC Commander.
“I thank our Commander-in-Chief, Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, for his continuous guidance and unwavering support. He is the foundation of all our efforts in training and equipping the force,” Col. Bagonza stated. He also expressed gratitude to the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, for his role in professionalizing both the SFC and the wider UPDF.
He emphasized that the army’s focus on building capacity has significantly improved professionalism, discipline, and combat readiness across the force. Urging competitors to take the event seriously, he said, “You may not be the best yet, but you’ve been chosen and named among the best. Defend that title with excellence.”
This year’s competition drew 11 teams from four key formations: Headquarters Group, One Special Forces Group, Two Special Forces Group, and Three Special Forces Group. The competition includes a range of tactical disciplines such as the Strongest Special Challenge, Long-Range Rifle Challenge, Pistol Challenge, Hostage Rescue Challenge, and Direct Action drills. The final day will feature demonstrations of hostage rescue, direct action, and precision shooting.
Col. Bagonza reminded participants that the competition is not about defeating an enemy but about mutual growth and camaraderie. “Be your brother’s keeper. Guide one another, practice, refine your skills, and compete with confidence and unity,” he said.
The commandant of Fort Samora Machel Special Forces Training School, Lt. Col. Beyendera Edison, highlighted the broader purpose of the competition. He described it as a celebration of discipline, accuracy, and the enduring commitment that defines the SFC. “This is more than a contest—it’s about unity, healthy competition, and knowledge sharing to enhance our operational preparedness,” he noted. He further encouraged teams to embody courage, mutual respect, and sportsmanship.
Col. Paul Lokut, Director of Training and Doctrine—SFC, described the inter-unit contest as a showcase of the core duties of Special Forces both in Uganda and globally. “Every scenario in this competition reflects real-life operations of Special Forces—ranging from direct action to hostage rescue and unconventional warfare,” he explained. He urged participants to uphold discipline and make their respective units proud.
The opening ceremony was attended by senior officers, including commanding officers, operations and training officers, commandants from various training institutions, and other leaders from the SFC.
The event not only showcases the elite capabilities of the Special Forces but also reaffirms the UPDF’s dedication to excellence, readiness, and national defense.
