CDF Gen. Muhoozi, French Ambassador Discuss Expanded Military, Infrastructure Cooperation

Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, today met with the French Ambassador to Uganda, Her Excellency Virginie Leroy, to strengthen bilateral relations and explore deeper military and infrastructure cooperation between the two nations.

The high-level meeting took place at the Special Forces Command (SFC) Headquarters in Entebbe, bringing together senior officials from both sides. Ambassador Leroy was accompanied by the French Defence Attaché, Colonel Sébastien Berger, and the Second Counsellor at the French Embassy, Ms. Camille Portat. The Ugandan delegation included the UPDF Chief of Joint Staff, Lieutenant General Jack Bakasumba, and the Joint Staff Training and Doctrine Commander, Brigadier General Wycliffe Keita.

CDF Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba (L) held talks with French Ambassador to Uganda H.E Virginie Leroy

General Kainerugaba reaffirmed the warm and longstanding relations between Uganda and France, noting that his direct engagement with French diplomatic and defence representatives dates back to 2011. He expressed appreciation for France’s sustained support to Uganda, particularly in enhancing the UPDF’s mission in Somalia through specialized training and key operational capabilities.

He also highlighted France’s contribution to strengthening Uganda’s domestic defence proficiency, especially in Mountain Warfare training and in securing professional training opportunities for UPDF officers in French-affiliated military institutions.

Ambassador Leroy thanked the CDF for the productive engagement and praised the strong bilateral partnership. She emphasised that cooperation between the two countries extends well beyond defence, highlighting ongoing collaboration in critical infrastructure development—including roads, railways, water supply systems, and energy sector projects.