The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has praised the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) for their ongoing efforts across various missions.
He made the remarks today while closing a three-day retreat for Ugandan Defence Attachés and Advisors at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MODVA) Headquarters, Mbuya.
Gen Kainerugaba commended the UPDF troops operating in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo under Operation Shujaa, emphasising their success in degrading the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF).
“We have severely degraded ADF, killed a lot of their commanders, and many terrorists have been killed because of the operation,” he stated. He highlighted the rescue and rehabilitation of abductees, transforming them into productive citizens.
He noted that life is returning to normal in formerly ADF-occupied villages, with schools, churches, and homes reopening. He further pointed to the progress made on the ongoing bilateral infrastructure projects, including road construction.
On Somalia, Gen Kainerugaba said the UPDF troops are managing the transition from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) to the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) effectively, despite challenges. He reaffirmed the UPDF’s commitment to maintaining its legacy of more than 18 years in Somalia.
Touching on the Karamoja region, the CDF celebrated the restoration of peace and the flourishing of tourism, particularly in Kidepo National Park. “We have eliminated those warriors that have been disturbing people, and we shouldn’t allow Karachunas to access weapons again,” he said.
The Chief of Joint Staff, Major General Jack Bakasumba, said the retreat aimed to provide strategic guidance from the MODVA and the UPDF leadership. He added that the participants shared experiences and insights into areas of cooperation.
The event was attended by senior UPDF officials, including the Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security, Major General James Birungi, and the Director of Defence Public Information, Brigadier General Felix Kulayigye , among orhers.
