17 years of service: 2007 cadet intake of Police officers celebrates a milestone

By Mugarura Steven Rukwengye

 On October 5, 2024, a momentous reunion was held at the Grand Global Hotel in Kampala, where the 2007 cadet intake of police officers gathered to celebrate 17 years of service.

More than 150 officers attended the event, reflecting on their achievements, their journey, and the collective service they have rendered to the nation. This reunion was a testament to the unity and dedication that have defined this group since their enrollment in September 2007.

This intake, which saw the commissioning of some of Uganda’s finest law enforcement professionals, has significantly impacted the Uganda Police Force (UPF). A large portion of middle-level commanders and department heads within the UPF come from this cohort.

Among the notable attendees were some of the intake’s most accomplished officers, including Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIGP) Frank Mwesigwa (Director of Operations), Dr. Adijja Namutebi (Director of Welfare, Production, and Sports), and Engineer Apola James (Director of Logistics and Engineering), all of whom have risen through the ranks thanks to their exemplary service and dedication.

Others in attendance included Dr. Martin Mugume (Commandant of the K9 Department), Ms. Sylvia Chelangat (Deputy Director of Forensics), Mr. Fred Ahimbisibwe, who traveled from Somalia, and various Regional Police Commanders and heads of specialized units.

 AIGP Frank Mwesigwa: A Pillar of Leadership

 AIGP Frank Mwesigwa, one of the highest-ranking officers from the 2007 intake, has become a beacon of leadership within the Uganda Police Force. He holds a master’s degree in Peace Studies and Conflict Transformation from the National Police College in Rwanda and has extensive training in anti-terror operations.

Throughout his career, he has held key positions, including leading efforts in law enforcement and public order management, counter-terrorism, heading the Police Training School in Kabalye, and establishing specialized police units such as the Environmental Protection Police.

His presence at the event served as an inspiration to his colleagues, exemplifying the heights that can be achieved through dedication and commitment to service.

 Dr. Hadijah Namutebi: Blending Policing with Intellectualism

 Dr. Hadijah Namutebi, another distinguished member of the 2007 intake, holds a PhD from Costa Rica. Her academic achievements were recognized at a ceremony held in September 2024 at the Police Senior Command and Staff College in Bwebajja, Uganda. Dr. Namutebi and her colleagues were encouraged to use their knowledge to benefit the Uganda Police Force, emphasizing the importance of intellectual and professional growth.

AIGP Namutebi, who has served as a trainer at the Kabalye Police Training School and in other capacities, currently holds the position of Director of Welfare, Production, and Sports within the UPF.

Her dual expertise in law enforcement and academia has made her a valuable asset to the force, especially in areas such as policy formulation and welfare programs. Rising from the rank of constable (WPC) to Assistant Inspector General of Police, she continues to inspire both her colleagues and women across spheres.

Engineer Apola James: The Technical Mind Behind the Force

 Engineer Apola James has played a crucial role in modernizing the technical infrastructure of the Uganda Police Force.

His engineering background has been pivotal in ensuring that the UPF is equipped with the latest tools and technology to combat crime and maintain public order.

His contributions have been recognized both within the police force and beyond. During the reunion, he reassured his colleagues of his continued commitment to supporting their career growth and promoting professional excellence.

 The journey of the 2007 Cadet Intake

 The 2007 cadet officers were part of a strategic recruitment drive aimed at bolstering the capacity of the Uganda Police Force and its counterparts in neighboring countries, including South Sudan and Somalia.

The intake comprised 425 officers, including 14 from Somalia and 6 from South Sudan. Sadly, 17 officers from this cohort, including one from South Sudan and another from Somalia, have since passed away.

Over the past 17 years, these officers have been at the forefront of various law enforcement operations, contributing to the safety and security of Uganda.

Their roles have spanned multiple departments, including criminal investigations, traffic management, forensics, public order management, anti-stock theft, disarmament efforts in Karamoja, VIP protection, peacekeeping missions, and community policing, among others.

 The reunion at the Grand Global Hotel was not only a celebration of their shared history but also an opportunity to reflect on the future of the Uganda Police Force. It honored their professional journey, recent promotions, and paid tribute to their fallen colleagues.

The Chairperson of the event, ACP Ganyana Zurah, took the occasion to pay tribute to their former trainer, the late AIGP Andrew Felix Kaweesi, recognizing his vital role in shaping their careers.

“We have come this far because of the strong foundation laid for us by our trainers, led by the late AIGP Andrew Felix Kaweesi,” she said. The officers reaffirmed their commitment to serving the nation with integrity and professionalism.

As the celebration drew to a close, many officers expressed their gratitude for the opportunities they have had to serve their country. They spoke fondly of the friendships and camaraderie that have developed over the years—a bond that has sustained them through the challenges and triumphs of their careers.

The 2007 cadet intake remains an exemplary group within the Uganda Police Force, and their legacy continues to inspire new generations of police officers.

With leaders like AIGP Frank Mwesigwa, Dr. Adijja Namutebi, and Engineer Apola James, the Uganda Police Force is well-positioned to continue serving and protecting the nation in the years to come. The event concluded with dance and celebrations.

 The author is a businessman and innovator.