A Ugandan military officer’s unusual uniform has sparked mixed reactions on social media.
In a viral clip seen by TNX Africa, the officer is seen wearing a brown military uniform, a camouflage helmet fitted with a torch, a bulletproof vest, boots and gloves.
He was also carrying an AK-47 rifle, ammunition, a hammer, a measuring tape, pliers and several screwdrivers, drawing widespread attention for the unusual mix of military and hardware equipment as he walked along a public street.
Social media users jokingly dubbed him a “combat carpenter,” with many debating whether he was heading to a tactical operation or a home renovation project.
Under normal circumstances, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), and from publicly available photos, wear uniforms designed for combat efficiency rather than carrying civilian repair tools.
Is uganda in a war??,ugadan military are very clueless sasa nyundo na screwdriver ni ya nini in the middle of the dirty street? pic.twitter.com/j9AzFCNbjW
— wanjiru (@Wanjiru2027) August 2, 2026
A standard UPDF combat uniform typically includes camouflage fatigues, a service beret or ballistic helmet depending on deployment, tactical load-bearing gear fitted with military equipment such as magazine pouches, a water canteen, a first aid kit and communication devices, as well as official rank insignia and regimental patches.
While military engineers and pioneer units may carry specialised equipment during technical assignments, it is uncommon to see an officer wearing civilian tools such as a claw hammer and measuring tape alongside live ammunition during routine deployment, making the viral clip particularly unusual.
The debate comes just days after Burkina Faso unveiled new ceremonial military uniforms made entirely from locally handwoven textiles.
The uniforms debuted at the Georges-Namoano Military Academy in Pô during the graduation of 218 newly commissioned officers, officiated by interim President Captain Ibrahim Traoré. He described the new attire as a celebration of the country’s cultural heritage and craftsmanship.
The ceremonial outfit is made from Cencengu, a traditional handwoven fabric from Burkina Faso’s historic Gulmu region. It features a dark navy jacket with purple and burgundy vertical stripes, a bright red front panel, gold buttons and ornate gold trim on the collar, cuffs and shoulders.
The look is completed with tailored black trousers featuring gold side stripes tucked into polished black boots, a ceremonial belt and a bright red fez, also known as a chéchia, honouring the country’s ancestors and military heroes.
The initiative forms part of Traoré’s broader campaign to promote locally made products, strengthen national sovereignty and showcase Burkinabè identity.
