Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2008. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
 |
New Vision (Kampala) - November 19, 2008
Frederick Kiwanuka
More UPDF soldiers have died from HIV/Aids than at the war front, Yoweri Museveni said.
Museveni made the comments while passing out 1,966 new UPDF recruits at Kaweweta military training school in Nakaseke on Tuesday.
Live responsibly so as to enjoy longer lives and serve the nation, the President advised the recruits.
"If you die or get sick from AIDS, you let us down."
The highlights of the day included an air display by the UPDF helicopter gunships and fighter planes, firing range, crossing obstacles and a 51-guard parade by the graduands.
Simon Peter Okiror was the best student, Mayanja Muhammad topped in field activities, while Nancy Adoch emerged the best woman performer.
Museveni said the field events were good but pointed out inadequate coordination at the parade. "You saw how these people were lowering their guns at different times."
Although the UPDF had recruited educated soldiers, he said, some field commanders were misusing them. "A soldier who is supposed to eat a kilo (of maize flour) is given half a kilo because the commander wants to save something," Museveni said. "The commanders must learn how to use the soldiers well in the field."
Recounting the NRA bush war which brought the NRM to power in 1986, Museveni said Kaweweta served as decisive battle ground.
He said he was happy that the former battle ground, which was also used as training ground for the anti-apartheid ANC forces in the 1980s, had evolved into a "centre for creating more fighters for Uganda".
The chief of defence forces, Lt. General Aronda Nyakairima, said the army was committed to giving "total" training to soldiers.
The Government is constructing the Oliver Tambo leadership Institute, a primary school and a hospital.
In attendance were the state minister for defence, Ruth Nankabirwa and Lt. General Katumba Wamala.
081119
NV081114
Copyright © 2008 - The New Vision. All articles are republished on AEGIS by permission. Material may not be redistributed, posted to any other location, published or used for broadcast without written authorization from Managing Director/Editor-in-chief, The New Vision, P.O. Box 9815, Kampala - Uganda, Tel/fax: 256-41-235221, E-mail: wpike@newvision.co.ug.
AEGiS is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit, tax-exempt, educational corporation. AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted funding from Boehringer Ingelheim, Bridgestone/Firestone Charitable Trust, Elton John AIDS Foundation UK, the National Library of Medicine, AIDS Walk of Orange County, and donations from users like you.
Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeared in 2008. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.
AEGiS presents published material, reprinted with permission and neither endorses nor opposes any material. All information contained on this website, including information relating to health conditions, products, and treatments, is for informational purposes only. It is often presented in summary or aggregate form. It is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professionals. Always discuss treatment options with a doctor who specializes in treating HIV.
Copyright ©1980, 2008. AEGiS. All materials appearing on AEGiS are protected by copyright as a collective work or compilation under U.S. copyright and other laws and are the property of AEGiS, or the party credited as the provider of the content. .