The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba this Monday afternoon met with his counterpart from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Gen. Christian Tshiwewe. The meeting, which took place in the town of Kasindi in Eastern DRC, was aimed at reviewing the progress of Operation Shujaa.
The joint military operation was initiated following agreements between Uganda and the DRC in 2021 to counter the terrorist Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) threat in North Kivu. The development comes at a time when fleeing ADF fighters are carrying out revenge killings in civilian settlements in North Kivu.In April, 2024, ADF allegedly killed at least 40 civilians in a spate of attacks in Beni, North Kivu Province. According to local sources, the ADF “are sowing terror and desolation,” as they launch repeated attacks on communities and civilian property, particularly on the border between North Kivu and Ituri.
Today’s meeting was attended by several high-ranking UPDF officials, including the Commander Land Forces Lt. Gen. Kayanja Muhanga and Operation Shujaa Commander Maj. Gen. Dick Olum. The FARDC delegation also included top Generals from the DRC military.In the Kasindi meeting, Gen. Muhoozi praised Operation Shujaa as a prime example of African countries working together to address shared concerns, specifically combating the ADF terrorist threat. He expressed gratitude towards the leaders of Uganda and DRC for championing the initiative, underscoring the “long standing relationship between the two nations” and emphasising the “role of UPDF and FARDC in ensuring continued peaceful coexistence.”
Gen. Muhoozi, who is also the Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations, extended his appreciation to his DRC counterpart for the warm reception and acknowledged his leadership in driving the success of the operation.
He highlighted the significant progress made in weakening the ADF terrorists, citing numerous casualties, captures, and surrenders. Gen. Tshiwewe congratulated Gen. Muhoozi on his recent appointment as the CDF and commended the joint efforts of UPDF and FARDC in combating the common enemy – ADF.