UPDF Positions Logistics as Backbone of Modern Warfare at MUBS Careers Expo
The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has emphasized the growing importance of logistics in modern warfare and civilian operations, urging students to embrace data-driven supply chain careers during the Third Annual Careers Expo at Makerere University Business School (MUBS).
The high-profile expo brought together government institutions, corporate organisations, students, and key stakeholders to explore emerging career opportunities and the evolving demands of today’s job market.
Leading the UPDF delegation, Godwin Karugaba, Joint Staff–Logistics, described logistics as a critical pillar in ensuring operational readiness and mission success in modern military operations.
He noted that efficient logistics systems are vital for sustaining troop support in the field, as well as executing both peacekeeping and domestic missions effectively.
Brig Gen Karugaba highlighted the UPDF’s continued investment in modern logistics infrastructure and training, explaining that military logisticians play a central role across multiple functions. These include procurement, inventory management, equipment maintenance, fuel and ration distribution, medical logistics coordination, and engineering support services.
He urged students to seize available training opportunities in logistics, stressing that expertise in the field is increasingly becoming a competitive advantage.
“You’ll be a logistics boss if you grasp what is going to be taught here,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, Edward Sengonzi Damurila, Under Secretary and Accounting Officer at the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, highlighted the rapid transformation of supply chain careers.
Sengonzi pointed out that the field is shifting toward data-driven, technology-enabled, and sustainability-focused practices, largely driven by digital transformation.
He explained that automation is gradually replacing routine administrative tasks, allowing professionals to focus more on strategic and analytical roles.
“Manual tasks such as document creation are being automated, enabling professionals in the supply chain field to focus on strategic and value-added functions,” he noted.
The expo featured active participation from UPDF officers, university officials, exhibitors, and students, sparking conversations aimed at preparing graduates for the future of work.
It also reinforced the importance of stronger collaboration between academia and industry in shaping Uganda’s evolving labour market.
As logistics continues to gain prominence across sectors, the message from the expo was clear: students who invest in supply chain skills today will be well-positioned to lead tomorrow’s workforce.