Lieutenant General Sam Okiding, Deputy Chief of Defence Forces of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), has praised the 4 Infantry Division for their outstanding drill performance in preparation for the forthcoming Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Drill Competition.
During his visit to the division headquarters in Gulu, Gen Okiding expressed his satisfaction with the troops’ discipline, coordination, and precision as they gear up for the competition set for 12 May 2025 at the Kololo Independence Grounds in Kampala.
Applauding the leadership of the division, he remarked that their preparedness mirrored the positive training progress seen across UPDF formations nationwide. “Parade is not a form of punishment, but rather a demonstration of readiness,” Gen Okiding stressed, urging troops to take pride in the drill as a measure of a unit’s success and discipline. Themed “Disciplined Force for a Better Uganda,” this year’s event underscores the UPDF’s commitment to professionalism and excellence.
Gen Okiding reaffirmed the leadership’s support for the drills committee and participating units, highlighting the competition’s role in fostering discipline, teamwork, and operational excellence. He encouraged commanders and troops alike to modernise key elements crucial for success at the national level.
The event will showcase a range of demonstrations, including sword and crop stick drills, foot drills, and brass band performances.
In support of preparation efforts, a team of 85 seasoned instructors drawn from both senior and junior officer ranks, along with staff from the UPDF General Headquarters, has been deployed to guide the units.
The visit was also attended by Brig Gen Jackson Kayanja, Deputy Commander of the 4 Infantry Division; Col Innocent Tukashaba; and several staff officers.
