“How We’ve Made It”: Gen Kavuma Breaks Down Formula Behind UPDF Successes

Senior military commander Lt Gen Samuel Kavuma has attributed the success of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) to strong ideological grounding, discipline, and patriotism, rather than reliance on weaponry alone.

Speaking at a birthday dinner hosted for Members of Parliament-elect in honour of Chief of Defence Forces Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Gen Kavuma emphasized that the UPDF’s strength is rooted in principles that shape the conduct and mindset of its officers and soldiers.

“Our strength has not come from the weapons we have. We follow the correct ideologies,” Kavuma said, underscoring the importance of a clear philosophical foundation within the military.

Speaker Anita Annet Among leads legislators in cutting the cake to celebrate CDF Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s 52nd birthday

He pointed to what he described as the force’s guiding ethos, highlighting “conscious discipline” as a key driver of the UPDF’s achievements over time. According to him, discipline within the ranks is not incidental but cultivated intentionally, forming the backbone of operational effectiveness.

Kavuma, who serves as Commander of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia, also stressed patriotism as a central pillar of military success. He said understanding, loving, and committing to one’s country is essential for any soldier and leader.

“Knowing, understanding and loving your country,” he noted, is fundamental to sustaining national security and unity.

In his remarks, Kavuma further underscored the role of leadership, stating that true leaders must strive to make a meaningful impact on the institutions and people they serve.

The General represented Gen Muhoozi at the event, which brought together newly elected legislators in a show of civil-military engagement and alignment on national priorities.

His comments come at a time when Uganda continues to play a significant role in regional peacekeeping efforts, particularly in Somalia under ATMIS, where UPDF troops remain a key pillar in stabilisation operations.