Gen. (Rtd) Katumba Wamala commends the intake for producing dependable and accomplished officers
Twenty-five years of service is no ordinary milestone. It is a testament to discipline, sacrifice, resilience, patriotism and an unwavering commitment to duty.
Yesterday, members of Cadet Intake 2001 gathered at Skyz Hotel, Naguru, to celebrate 25 remarkable years of service to the nation through the Uganda Police Force. The anniversary brought together a distinguished group of officers and former officers whose careers have been defined by dedication, leadership and an enduring commitment to protecting lives and property.
The celebrations were presided over by Gen. (Rtd) Katumba Wamala, Minister for Public Service, who served as the Inspector General of Police when the cadets joined the Force in 2001. His presence added a deeply personal dimension to the occasion, rekindling the bond between the former IGP and the young officers he welcomed into the Police Force a quarter of a century ago.
In his remarks, Gen. Katumba Wamala commended the intake for remaining steadfast and for producing some of the Force’s most dependable and accomplished officers.
“Thank you for not letting me down. You have produced some of the reliable and useful officers in the Police Force,” Gen. Katumba Wamala noted.»
He urged the members to maintain the spirit of camaraderie that has sustained them over the years by regularly meeting, sharing experiences and discussing the challenges they encounter in their professional and personal lives.
As many of them approach retirement, Gen. Katumba Wamala also emphasised the importance of financial discipline and a strong culture of saving.
“You are not growing any younger. Cultivate a saving culture from your earnings, make a commitment to save, prepare for retirement and continue to be role models to those you lead,” he advised.»
From young cadets to senior commanders
On 18 August 2001, 70 young, energetic and patriotic men and women reported to Police Training School, Kibuli. They came from diverse backgrounds and professions, but were united by one noble objective: to serve in the Uganda Police Force and uphold its core mandate of securing lives and property.
Twenty-five years later, that small group has left an indelible footprint on the history and development of the Uganda Police Force.
Addressing the gathering, AIGP (Rtd) Grace Akullo reflected on the remarkable journey of the intake, noting that their transformation from young cadets into senior commanders was a powerful testament to perseverance and professional excellence.
“We stand today, 25 years later, not as cadets but as commanders, serving at different levels, including the highest strategic level of the Uganda Police Force. This milestone is a testament to discipline, hard work and resilience,” she said.»
The 2001 intake did more than simply add numbers to the strength of the Uganda Police Force. It filled critical leadership, command and strategic positions, contributing significantly to the professionalisation and transformation of the institution.
A legacy of leadership
The intake produced a remarkable generation of leaders who have served the Force in numerous capacities and made significant contributions to policing in Uganda and beyond.
Among the distinguished members are:
– AIGP Andrew Felix Kaweesi (RIP), who served as Director of Operations, Director Human Resource Development, Commander Kampala Metropolitan Police, Commandant of Police Training School Kabalye and Police Spokesperson.
– AIGP (Rtd) Grace Akullo, who served in the Criminal Investigations Directorate for 19 years, including 11 years as Director, and later served as Director Interpol and International Relations.
– AIGP Dr. Elly Moses Byaruhanga, Director of Police Health Services.
– AIGP John Nuwagira and AIGP Fhadil Khali, both of whom served as commanders of the Field Force Unit.
– AIGP Kataratambi Charles (RIP), who served as Director Legal and Human Rights.
– SCP Fred Enanga, who served prominently as Police Spokesperson, Commander CID Kampala Metropolitan Police and Head of the Economic Crimes Department under CID, and currently serves as Deputy Director, International Relations under INTERPOL.
– CP Alalo Christine (RIP), who served as Deputy Police Commissioner with AMISOM.
– SCP Asaba Charles, Deputy Director Crime Intelligence.
– SCP Anne Tusime, Deputy Director Human Resource Development.
– SCP Halango Timothy, Deputy Director Research, Planning and Development.
– SCP Dr Nuwamanya Emmanuel- Deputy Director police health services.
– CP Dr Olivia Byogero
– CP Ameri Irene, Commandant Professional Standards Unit.
– CP Dinah Kyasimire, Acting Director Human Rights and Legal Services.
– CP Sarah Kibwika, Acting Deputy Director Research, Planning and Development.
– CP Okoshi Simon, Deputy Director Operations.
– CP Akwango Esther and ACP Byamugisha Benedict, both serving under Research, Planning and Development.
– CP Herman Owomugisha Ag Commander FFU
– ACP Abdul Kalule, Acting Commissioner of Police in charge of Sports.
The intake’s influence has also extended beyond the Police Force, with distinguished members including Hon. Semei Nsubuga, who serves as a Commissioner at the Uganda Human Rights Commission, and Hon. Wilson Kajwengye, among others.
Twenty-five years of service, one enduring bond
The celebration was more than a commemoration of time served. It was a celebration of friendship, shared sacrifice, professional growth and a legacy built over a quarter of a century.
From the young cadets who reported to Kibuli in August 2001 to senior commanders who went on to occupy some of the most influential positions within the Force, Cadet Intake 2001 has undoubtedly written a remarkable chapter in the history of the Uganda Police Force.
