Hon. Kiwanuka, EU Envoy Discuss Regional Security

The Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka, has highlighted Uganda’s military operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Somalia as key contributions to addressing security threats in the Great Lakes Region and the Horn of Africa.

He made the remarks during a meeting with the European Union (EU) Special Representative for the Great Lakes Region, H.E. Johan Borgstam, who paid a courtesy call on him at the Ministry headquarters in Mbuya.

Hon. Kiwanuka said Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) operations had significantly weakened the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), reducing the threat posed by the group to communities in the DRC.

“We have managed to deal with the biggest part of the ADF, and it is no longer an issue for the people of Congo,” he said.

He explained that Uganda’s participation in peacekeeping missions was aimed at promoting collective security while respecting the sovereignty of other states.

The Minister also commended the EU’s partnership with Uganda, particularly in humanitarian assistance and refugee protection. He thanked the bloc for its continued support and called on African countries to prioritise dialogue in resolving conflicts, while cautioning against external interference in the continent’s affairs.

Mr Borgstam commended Uganda’s contribution to peacekeeping, praising the UPDF’s operations against the ADF and its role in Somalia. He noted that Uganda’s commitment and sacrifices had contributed to efforts to promote stability in the Great Lakes Region and the Horn of Africa.

The meeting was attended by the State Minister for Defence, Hon. Grace Akifeza Ngabirano; the Undersecretary for Finance and Administration, Ms Edith Buturo; the Chief of Joint Staff, Lt Gen Jack Bakasumba; senior UPDF officers; and EU representatives.