The Chief of Joint Staff of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), Maj Gen Jack Bakasumba, has praised the strong defence cooperation between Uganda and Zimbabwe, urging continued collaboration to further strengthen the bond.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief of Defence Forces, Maj Gen Bakasumba made the remarks while hosting a delegation from the Zimbabwe National Defence University (ZNDU) at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs headquarters in Mbuya. The delegation included 22 course participants and faculty members.
Maj Gen Bakasumba credited the UPDF’s operational growth and institutional resilience to the visionary leadership of President Yoweri Museveni, whom he described as a steadfast Pan-Africanist. “His leadership has enabled us to grow and undertake numerous successful missions. It laid a strong foundation for our training and operational capacity,” he said.
Reaffirming Uganda’s commitment to regional peace, Maj Gen Bakasumba highlighted the UPDF’s involvement in Somalia as an example of Uganda’s dedication to African-led peace efforts. “We don’t share a border with Somalia, but because of our ideological clarity and commitment to African solutions to African problems, we continue to support peace efforts there,” he noted.
He extended appreciation to the Zimbabwean delegation for choosing Uganda as part of their regional study tour, describing their visit as a reflection of deep-rooted friendship. “We are honoured that you selected Uganda as part of your regional tour. We value your visit and do not take it for granted,” Maj Gen Bakasumba remarked.
Brig Gen Francis Chakauya, who led the visiting delegation, expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality extended by the UPDF. He said the visit was inspired by the historical and strategic ties between the two nations. “We chose Uganda because of the excellent relationship we share. It is a special bond rooted in a shared vision for strengthening our nations. We hope it continues to grow,” Brig Gen Chakauya said.
Also present at the event were Maj Gen Don Nabasa, Joint Staff Policy and Strategy; Maj Gen Felix Kulayigye, Director of Defence Public Information; Brig Gen Godwin Karugaba, Joint Staff Logistics; Brig Gen Robert Mugabe, Joint Staff Finance; Brig Gen Wycliffe Keita, Joint Staff Training and Doctrine; Brig Gen Abdul Rugumayo, Deputy Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security; and other senior officers.
