UPDF Graduates First Intake of MCAV-20 Drivers After Specialized Training
The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Motorised Infantry Division on August 22, 2025, officially passed out its first cohort of Multi-Role Combat Armoured Vehicle-20 (MCAV-20) drivers after completing a six-month intensive training programme.
According to a statement from the army, 78 soldiers—among them four women—successfully graduated from the course. The trainees were drawn from both the Motorised Infantry Division and the Special Forces Command (SFC).
The pass-out ceremony, held at the division headquarters in Nakasongola, was presided over by the Deputy Commander of Land Forces, Maj. Gen. Francis Takirwa. He applauded the graduates for their commitment and discipline, urging them to put their newly acquired expertise to use in mission-critical operations, particularly in protecting Very Important Persons (VIPs).
The Commander of the Motorised Infantry Division, Maj. Gen. Charles Byanyima, credited the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, for spearheading the modification of the MCAV-20 vehicles, a move that has significantly improved their operational efficiency. He also highlighted advances in soldier welfare, noting that morale within the force has risen as a result of the CDF’s efforts to enhance living and working conditions.
Maj. Gen. Byanyima further recognised the role of UPDF instructors and civilian partners such as the Savannah Region Police Inspector of Vehicles and Ebenezer Driving School, who ensured the training met licensing requirements set by the Ministry of Works and Transport.
Providing details about the course, Col. Esibio Omaria, the Division Operations and Training Officer, said it was structured around five core pillars: offensive and defensive driving, vehicle maintenance, obstacle clearance, and terrain navigation. He explained that the graduates are now skilled in advanced manoeuvres, including road domination, neutralising hostile vehicles, countering threats, and executing VIP extractions under attack.
Six trainees received special awards for their outstanding performance. Pte Kamya Kerizon was named overall best student, Sgt Muhaniwemana Lymon won the award for best discipline, while Pte Manyobe Francis excelled in field performance. L/Cpl Akwii Everline was recognised as the best female trainee, Pte Aide George Robert as best in class, and Pte Tumusinguze Mercy Paula as the most improved student.
The event also saw the commissioning of several new facilities, including technical stores, a fuel station, the Front for National Salvation (FRONASA) senior officers’ mess, and modern housing units for soldiers.
Among the dignitaries present were Brig. Gen. Edward Mutawe, Director of Human Resource Management Land Forces; Col. Stuart Agaba, Director of Policy and Plans Land Forces; Col. John Siyareta, Director of Operations Land Forces; Col. Alan Mujurizi, Commander 801 MOI Brigade; Nakasongola Deputy Resident District Commissioner Gordon Musinguzi; along with representatives from the Uganda Police Force and Uganda Prisons Service.
