"Carry our nation's name": Museveni celebrates grandson's Sandhurst graduation
This story has significance for readers across Kenya and beyond.
- Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni took to Instagram on Sunday, August 16, to celebrate two young officers who completed training at the prestigious Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the UK
- One of the graduates is Museveni's own grandson, Ruhamya, whose commissioning at the historic British institution drew widespread praise from Ugandans online
- Museveni encouraged young Ugandans to consider military service, saying army training gives them a solid foundation for life
Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni had reason to beam with pride on Sunday, August 16, after his grandson Ruhamya graduated from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, one of the world's most respected officer-training institutions.
Museveni shared the news on Instagram, congratulating the families of two young officers who completed the rigorous commissioning course at the British academy.
His message was brief but warm, urging Uganda's youth to embrace military service as a stepping stone in life.
"Young Ugandans, Army service gives you good foundation. I congratulate the parents of the two young officers," the president wrote, signing off with his traditional title Ssaabalwanyi, meaning Commander of the Fighters in Luganda.
Where is Sandhurst?
The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, located near Camberley in Surrey, England, has been training British Army officers since 1802.
Its flagship commissioning course runs for approximately 44 weeks and covers military tactics, leadership, academic studies and intensive field training.
The institution carries enormous prestige globally, having shaped the careers of figures including Winston Churchill, King Charles III and Prince William.
Its motto, "Serve to Lead," reflects the philosophy drilled into every officer who passes through its gates.
For a Ugandan family to have a son commissioned there is no small achievement, and for the family to be that of a sitting head of state made the occasion all the more notable.
Will Museveni's grandson join UPDF?
Following his commissioning, Ruhamya is expected to join the Uganda People's Defence Force, taking his place in the military his grandfather has led for decades.
The graduation also included a fellow Ugandan officer, Bakyira, whose commissioning drew equal congratulations from Ugandans online.
Reactions from followers poured in quickly after Museveni's post went live. Here is what some had to say:
@brian_kisangara:
"Congratulations Ruhamya, congratulations Bakyira and congratulations Uganda! The future is bright. May the Almighty God continue blessing Uganda and all the generations to come."
@waryaronina:
"Your blessed his excellence is all I can say."
@monique.amanya:
"Congratulations to Ruhamya."
@_edward_twahirwa:
"Today you all can see the real bazunkuluz. The ones that can benefit from bazukulu benefits."
@gigi_ka_6:
"Congratulations to Ruhamya and Bakyira on this remarkable achievement. Their journey is a beautiful reminder that when young Ugandans are given the right foundation, discipline, education and opportunity, they can carry our nation's name with honour far beyond our borders."
Source: TUKO.co.ke
Reporting originally appeared via TUKO. Read the full source for additional context.