UPDF, Indian Community Celebrate India’s 79th Independence Day in Jinja
Jinja, Uganda – The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) on Thursday joined the Indian community in Jinja to commemorate India’s 79th Independence Day at the National Forensic Science University (NFSU) – Uganda Campus.
Speaking at the celebration, Air Commodore Kedar Thaakar, the NFSU Campus Director, highlighted the deep-rooted ties between Uganda and India, noting their shared colonial history, independence struggles, and mutual aspirations for development. He urged continued vigilance against modern global threats such as terrorism, cyberattacks, and radicalisation.
Thaakar emphasised that the establishment of the NFSU campus in Jinja was a deliberate step to strengthen security and build professional capacity not only for Uganda but for the wider African continent.
Representing the UPDF, Brig Gen Wyclif Keita, Joint Staff Training and Doctrine, reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to working closely with India in defence and security capacity building. He described the NFSU Uganda campus as both a symbol of strong bilateral relations and a platform for academic excellence.
“The establishment of this campus reflects India’s vision for a safer world,” Brig Gen Keita noted.
The colourful event drew the participation of senior military and security officials, including Brig Gen Emmanuel Kanyesigye, Commander of Jinja Cantonment; Brig Gen Flavia Byekwaso, Chief of Staff URDCC; Brig Gen Elvis Byamukama, Deputy Commandant SCSC Kimaka; Brig Gen Peter Omola; and SSP Charles Nsaba, Jinja Regional Police Commander.
Also in attendance were prominent members of the Indian business community in Uganda, who joined hands with the UPDF in celebrating the milestone.
