KYANKWANZI — President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called on Ugandans to acquire basic military skills and understand the “science of arms,” arguing that a trained civilian population is key to strengthening national defence.
The President made the remarks while leading Members of Parliament through a shooting practice session at the National Leadership Institute (NALI) in Kyankwanzi, during the closing activities of a week-long retreat.
“Ours is a people’s army. We encourage citizens to learn the science of arms so that in case of any threat, we can mobilise numbers for national defence,” President Museveni said.
The retreat, held from April 7 to 14 under the theme “Aligning the NRM leadership towards protecting the gains and making a bold, qualitative leap towards a higher middle-income status society,” brought together legislators for ideological and leadership training.
‘People’s army’ concept
President Museveni explained that Uganda’s security model is built on the idea of a reserve force, where citizens receive basic training and remain available for mobilisation when needed.
“This is how you maximise defence. People train, go back to their normal lives, but remain ready,” he said.
“That is what they do in countries like Israel, where citizens are called back for refresher training.”
He added that such systems enable even countries with smaller populations to build strong defence capabilities through continuous training.
Reflecting on Uganda’s past, the President cited the role of local defence units in responding to security threats, stressing the importance of preparedness.
MPs undergo firearms training
During the session, the President personally guided legislators on basic firearms handling and observed their performance. “I congratulate the participants. I can see some of them are veterans,” he said.
Okei Rukogota, Director of NALI, thanked the President for inaugurating the institute’s shooting range, saying it will enhance civilian training in basic defence skills.
“This is testimony that you have never been a dictator, because dictators cannot empower citizens with the means of defence,” Col. Rukogota said.
He added that equipping wananchi with practical skills strengthens national security and supports Uganda’s democratic and transformation processes.
