KAMPALA — President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has congratulated his grandson, Ruhamya Kainerugaba, after completing military training at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the United Kingdom.
In a message to Ugandans, particularly the “Bazzukulu,” President Museveni thanked God for protecting Uganda and enabling the country to address what he described as its numerous challenges.
“I want to use this occasion to thank God that has protected and enabled Uganda to address its numerous problems,” President Museveni said.
He also thanked God for what he described as the blessings bestowed on the National Resistance Movement (NRM), saying the movement and its precursors had now existed for more than 60 years.
President Museveni said he was particularly pleased that Ruhamya had joined the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), describing the development as a blessing to his family.
“Now, God has blessed me with one of my grandchildren, Ruhamya, joining my big family of UPDF, having graduated, with his colleague, Bakyira, from Sandhurst recently,” he said.
He congratulated both Ruhamya and Bakyira on completing their training and also commended their parents.
“Congratulations Ruhamya, congratulations Bakyira,” the President said. “I congratulate the parents of the two young officers.”
President Museveni further encouraged young Ugandans to consider military service, saying it provides a strong foundation.
“Young Ugandans, Army service gives you good foundation,” he said.
Ruhamya Kainerugaba is the son of Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the UPDF Chief of Defence Forces. In May, Gen Muhoozi announced that his son was undergoing training at Sandhurst and said he was “doing an excellent job” at the prestigious British military academy.
Ruhamya’s training at Sandhurst also extends a family military tradition. Gen Muhoozi himself trained at the academy, and President Museveni has previously praised his son’s decision to join the army and undertake military training, including at Sandhurst.
The Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs identifies President Museveni as the Commander-in-Chief of the UPDF and Gen Muhoozi as Chief of Defence Forces.
President Museveni signed off his message as “Yoweri K. Museveni, Ssaabalwanyi.”