Page 87 - AGC-Journal-2016

AGC JOURNAL 2016

adventure also took us through some
of the coffee plantations that are dotted
around the countryside, which gave us the
opportunity to purchase some of the hand
ground produce. We rounded off the day
by sampling the local nightlife; all in all, a
very fulfilling day out.
Despite having to do some work the next
morning, we managed to squeeze in a
Sunday afternoon cruise, starting in Lake
Victoria, passing the ‘source of the Nile’
(indicated by bubbles but understandably
Will Thackery mentoring Captain Victor Mususo Laura Fearnfield cooling off on the last day
disputed) and then onto the Nile itself.
Having had the opportunity to explore
experience and multiple operational tours meant that we were able to go into Week environment, in which the students’
under their belts, but what surprised us Two of the course with a renewed energy knowledge of the law discernibly grew, and
more was the level of experience that even and sense of purpose. strong bonds were built between all.
the newest recruits had. Understanding The course culminated in a graduation
what individuals had dealt with in an Week Two ceremony which was well attended and
operational setting meant that we were enjoyed by all participants. Before starting
able to tailor our presentations so as Although there was no formal assessment the long journey home Will Thackery and
to practically assist rather than be of on the course, the students were aware that I made the most of spending time with the
mere academic interest; in this vein the next step in their career progression students and enjoying the array of local
we tried to use African examples and would be to attend the Advanced Brigade food on offer; who knew goat, posho and
scenarios alongside our British and Dutch Legal Officers Course, but given the limited matoke would be so good.
experiences. number of places, only the best would
At the conclusion of a good lesson the be invited; this meant that the students Looking Back
class, led by the duty student, would break continued to work hard throughout the
out into a chant of ‘asante sana’ and clap second week. We tried to encourage them As always, Uganda was a fantastic
in unison. When unexpected this was a to take responsibility for different modules experience, and one that I have no doubt
bemusing sight but once we understood and, mentored by us, deliver some of will remain with us both for years to come.
both the meaning (a literal translation of the presentations themselves. The usual The vibrant sights and sounds of Jinja were
‘asante sana’ is ‘thank you very much’) Power Point presentations were heavily matched by the warmth of the Ugandans
and the fact that it was only dealt out supplemented with written homework, that we met, both civilian and military.
when the class deemed fit, it was much practical syndicate sessions, role play and From the moment that we landed at
appreciated; to receive your first personal team debates which all went down well. Entebbe Airport, to begin our dusty
‘asante sana’ was a wonderful feeling. The initial enthusiasm and friendliness journey to Jinja along the haphazard
did not abate at any point during our time intercity roads, we were both struck by
Time Off in Jinja. The students engaged fully and the welcome on offer, and by how keen
positively with the course materials, but people were to tell us about their beautiful
Being in Uganda for two weeks came with were also keen to forge friendships with country. Teaching in Uganda is certainly
the added bonus of having some time off us and our Dutch counterparts. The result not an opportunity to be missed.
at the weekend. Along with our Dutch was a relaxed and collegiate learning
colleague, we decided against having a
much needed lie in and instead set off at Junior Staff College, Qaddafi Barracks, Jinja. Home of the King’s African Rifles in 1938
the crack of dawn to drive from Jinja to
Sipi Falls. With the windows down and the
music cranked up we took turns to contend
with the apparent rule free zone that is
rural Ugandan roads; the drive took us
through towns, villages and countryside
and was actually a sightseeing venture of
its own.
We were rewarded for our early rise on a
hot Saturday morning by the stunning
scenery of Mount Elgon and an intrepid
hike up and around the mountain for
a good look at the many waterfalls.
Luckily the views distracted from the heat
but, when it all got a bit too much, a
quick icy dip was readily available. Our

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