The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) High Command met on Wednesday at State House, Entebbe, followed by the Defence Council meeting on Thursday, to assess the country’s security situation and regional stability.
President Yoweri Museveni, who chaired both meetings, highlighted the importance of maintaining peace within Uganda while supporting peace efforts in sister African countries.
Discussions covered the general security situation in the country and UPDF’s ongoing missions in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Somalia, and South Sudan.
President Museveni called on the UPDF to protect Uganda’s democracy by preventing intimidation and harassment by some political actors who threaten those whose political views differ.
The President urged the UPDF to uphold not only national security but also stability across the region and Africa as a whole, saying this is the only way to achieve strategic security for Africa.
General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Chief of Defence Forces, thanked the President for his leadership and assured that Uganda remains secure.
The CDF noted that the UPDF continues to enhance its capacity to safeguard Ugandan citizens, their property, and national assets, ensuring sustained security for economic prosperity.
Gen Kainerugaba also highlighted the UPDF’s efforts in strengthening military co-operation with other nations, including training exchanges, to enhance regional security and shared prosperity.
The meetings were attended by other top UPDF officials, including Deputy CDF Lt Gen Sam Okiding, Commander Land Force Lt Gen Kayanja Muhanga, Reserve Force Commander Lt Gen Otema Awany, Commander Air Force Lt Gen Charles Okidi, and SFC Commander Maj Gen David Mugisha.
Also present were officials from the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, led by Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs Hon Jacob Oboth Oboth, Minister of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs Hon Huda Oleru Abason, and Permanent Secretary Rosette Byengoma.
