The European Union (EU) Special Representative for the Great Lakes Region, H.E. Johan Borgstam, has praised the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) for their efforts in restoring peace and stability in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The envoy held a meeting with Lt Gen Muhanga Kayanja, Commander of Land Forces, representing the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, at the Special Forces Command Headquarters in Entebbe.
During the visit, Lt Gen Kayanja briefed H.E. Borgstam on the joint operations between the UPDF and the Congolese Army (FARDC) in Eastern DRC. These operations, ongoing since December 2021, have successfully targeted the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), allowing many Congolese to return home, reopening schools, and reviving trade in the region.
H.E. Borgstam, who arrived from Bunia in Eastern DRC as part of his routine tour, expressed appreciation for the UPDF’s work under difficult conditions. He encouraged continued collaboration with other partners, including the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), to deliver humanitarian aid to communities affected by the conflict.
Lt Gen Kayanja emphasized the UPDF’s commitment to working with all well-intentioned partners to eliminate terrorist threats and ensure lasting peace. He highlighted the army’s dedication to protecting civilians and supporting local communities affected by the insurgency.
Also attending was H.E. Jan Sadak, Ambassador of the European Union Delegation, who conveyed gratitude from the EU Foreign Minister for the UPDF’s contributions in Somalia. He also offered condolences to the families of UPDF soldiers who lost their lives in a recent helicopter crash under the African Union Mission in Somalia (ATMIS).
The EU delegation, including Mr. Tristan Terryn, Political Advisor to the EUSR, Mr. Guillaume Chartrain, Deputy Ambassador of the EU Delegation, and Mr. Toke Hauch Arnold, Political Advisor to the EU Delegation, highlighted the importance of international partnerships in promoting security, humanitarian aid, and regional development.
The discussions underscored the UPDF’s dual role in combatting insurgency and providing humanitarian support. The EU reaffirmed its commitment to working with Uganda and other partners to ensure sustainable peace in Eastern DRC, recognizing the positive impact of coordinated military and humanitarian operations on the lives of local communities.
