Maj Gen Francis Okello of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), who serves as the Commandant of the National Defence College Uganda (NDC-U), has encouraged Ugandans to engage in productive activities, particularly agriculture, to address insecurity and enhance livelihoods.
During a visit to Kiboga District and Nkandwa Sub-County, Maj Gen Okello emphasised the value of Uganda’s fertile soils in supporting agricultural growth. He stated that enhancing household incomes through agriculture could help reduce crime and promote peace. “Uganda has fertile soils that support agriculture. Make good use of them to improve your household income. When your welfare is good, you won’t think of engaging in criminality. The wellbeing of the community translates into peace,” Maj Gen Okello said.
Leading Cohort Three of NDC-U on a nationwide study tour, Maj Gen Okello underscored that security is not limited to physical safety but also involves addressing challenges such as hunger, environmental degradation, disease, poverty, poor education, and corruption. He stressed that tackling these issues requires a holistic approach, with agriculture playing a key role.
Maj Gen Okello also highlighted the mission of NDC-U, a strategic institution focused on national security, leadership, policy development, and research aimed at empowering future leaders.
He urged local leaders to increase awareness of government programmes, ensuring they are properly supervised and effectively implemented to maximise their benefits.
Kiboga Deputy Resident District Commissioner, Mr Jeremy Namanya, echoed these points, encouraging residents to take advantage of government initiatives such as the Parish Development Model to improve their incomes. He also warned against divisive practices like tribalism, calling them a threat to national security. “Uganda is peaceful now, and this peace must not be taken for granted. Let us guard it jealously,” Namanya said.
Since its inception in 2021, the NDC-U has successfully conducted two course intakes, with the third intake currently underway.
