Lt Gen Bakasumba Flags Off UPDF Contingent To EAC Civil-Military Week In Rwanda

The Chief of Joint Staff of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), Lt Gen Jack Bakasumba, has today flagged off a 30-member contingent heading to Kigali, Rwanda, for the 5^th East African Community (EAC) Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) Week.

While flagging off the contingent at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MODVA) headquarters in Mbuya, Lt Gen Bakasumba urged the team to uphold discipline and represent Uganda with pride. “Carry Uganda’s flag high,” Lt Gen Bakasumba said. “The way you conduct yourselves matters a lot. Guard against irresponsible remarks, especially during your free time.”

Lt Gen Bakasumba underscored the importance of CIMIC activities in deepening regional cooperation, improving service delivery, and strengthening the visibility of the EAC. He noted that the military is currently ahead of political structures in promoting regional integration.

He hailed the growing relationship between Uganda and Rwanda, describing it as one of increasing cooperation, with at least five joint activities held annually.

The Director of Civil-Military Cooperation, Brig Gen Michael Kibuye, explained that the activities were developed during a Defence Experts’ Working Group meeting held in Kigali earlier this month. “We pledge total commitment to do our best in this short but critical time,” Brig Gen Kibuye said.

The 30-member team includes 12 senior officers and is divided into two technical groups: 14 medical personnel and 14 engineers (plumbers and electrical technicians) led by Brig Gen Kibuye and his deputy, Lt Col Matsiko, who also heads Diplomatic and Regional Affairs in the UPDF.

The Ugandan contingent will participate in a range of humanitarian and development-oriented tasks, including providing free medical services, installing 70 solar panels, and setting up seven 10-litre water tanks across selected areas in Rwanda.