The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has announced the adoption of a Forward Defensive Posture in its area of operation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), following the worsening security situation in North Kivu and surrounding areas.
This move comes amid intense tensions between the March 23 Movement (M23) rebels and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) in recent weeks, which has further destabilized the already volatile eastern region of the DRC leading to the capture by the rebels of Goma City.
Forward Defensive Posture is a military strategy in which forces position themselves proactively near or beyond their borders to deter, deny, and prevent potential threats before they reach their territory. This approach is designed to enhance security, maintain strategic advantage, and respond swiftly to emerging threats.
According to the UPDF statement, the measure aims to deter and deny other negative armed groups operating in eastern DRC from exploiting the situation while ensuring Uganda’s security and strategic interests remain safeguarded.
Among the violent extremist groups active in the area is the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), which has been a major security concern for both Uganda and the DRC. Since the launch of Operation Shujaa in November 2021, the joint UPDF-FARDC military campaign has significantly weakened ADF capabilities.
“The UPDF, working with FARDC in its area of operation, is closely monitoring the unfolding security situation and will continue to aggressively pursue ADF remnants wherever they go,” the statement reads.
In this move, Uganda is displaying its commitment to regional stability, as the ongoing fighting between M23 and FARDC threatens to further complicate peace efforts in the region.
