UPDF Reaffirms Commitment to Strengthening Defence Ties with Zambia

The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening defence cooperation with the Zambia Defence Force by exploring new avenues for collaboration in regional security and development.

Maj Gen Richard Otto, Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security, who represented the Chief of Defence Forces, made the remarks while addressing a delegation of 27 students and staff from the Zambia Defence Services Command and Staff College at the Defence Intelligence and Security headquarters in Mbuya. “Your visit reflects not only the strong historical ties and shared security interests between our defence institutions, but also a collective commitment to advancing regional security cooperation,” Maj Gen Otto said.

He thanked the Zambia Defence Force leadership for choosing Uganda as a destination for their academic engagement and encouraged the delegation to use the opportunity to explore military policies, build professional relationships, and embrace the spirit of Pan-Africanism.

Maj Gen Otto identified defence diplomacy as a key area for further collaboration, citing President Yoweri Museveni’s vision for a united Africa. “Let us work together to shape a continent that is not only peaceful and prosperous, but also assertive on the global stage. May your experiences here spark new collaborations, inspire innovation, and strengthen our shared resolve,” he added.

He also underscored the potential for continued partnerships between the UPDF and the Zambia Defence Force, particularly through study exchange programmes.

Maj Gen Otto further highlighted the army’s role in national development, noting its contributions to infrastructure development, disaster response, environmental conservation, and public health services through military hospitals and mobile outreach initiatives. “The UPDF has embraced this role by aligning its operations with national development priorities. We urge you, as future leaders, to also be development actors and stabilisers,” he said.

Col John Buzi Nkojera, who led the Zambian delegation, expressed appreciation for the opportunity to engage with the UPDF leadership. “This has set a wonderful springboard for our visit. Many fruitful discussions have taken place, confirming that Uganda was the right choice for our college’s academic engagement,” he said.

Col Nkojera praised the UPDF for its efforts in promoting self-reliance and regional cooperation, particularly highlighting operational wealth creation as a model worth emulating.

The meeting was attended by senior UPDF officers, including Brig Gen Oscar Munanura, Assistant Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security for Counter-Intelligence; Col Elias Byamukama, Deputy Joint Staff Logistics; and Col Henry Obbo, Deputy Director of Defence Public Information, among others.