DETAILS: What Gen Muhoozi, DR Congo Army Chief Discussed In Meeting

General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Chief of Defence Forces of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) and Senior Presidential Adviser for Special Operations, met with his Congolese counterpart, General Christian Tshiwewe Songesha, Chief of General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Their discussions focused on enhancing bilateral relations in defence and security.

“Your presence here today underscores your commitment to strengthening our bilateral relations,” Gen Kainerugaba remarked during their meeting at the Defence Intelligence and Security headquarters in Mbuya.

He highlighted the substantial progress made under Operation Shujaa, stating, “We have made significant strides in our cooperation, particularly in the fight against ADF terrorists,” and emphasised the operation’s positive impact on civilians, especially women and children. “The achievements of Operation Shujaa have demonstrated the effectiveness of our collaboration,” he added, reinforcing that the mission reflects both Uganda and DRC’s dedication to long-term peace and stability in the region.

Uganda’s army has troops deployed in the DRC hunting ADF rebels under an operation code-named Shujaa. Two weeks ago, DRC’s president gave the operation a boost when he extended its mandate.

Gen Kainerugaba also pointed to Wednesday’s meeting between President Yoweri Museveni and President Felix Tshisekedi as vital for reinforcing regional stability. The Congolese president visited Museveni and the two held talks on a wide range of issues including security in the region.

In response, Gen Tshiwewe praised the strong partnership between their nations’ militaries, noting the cooperative spirit fostered by their Presidents.

“This close relationship between our forces, alongside the cooperation between our heads of state, demonstrates a shared commitment to addressing key issues,” he stated, adding that, “Our role as commanders is to carry out this mission effectively through Operation Shujaa.”

The meeting was attended by several senior officers, including the Commander of Land Force, Lt Gen Kayanja Muhanga; Commander of UPDF Air Force, Lt Gen Charles Okidi; Commander of Special Force Command, Maj Gen David Mugisha; and Chief of Joint Staff, Maj Gen Jack Bakasumba, along with other Generals and Senior Officers from UPDF and FARDC. (All Photos via UPDF)