Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, recently held strategic discussions with General Christian Tshiwewe Songesa, Chief of Staff for the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (FARDC) armed forces, aimed at enhancing regional security cooperation in East and Central Africa.
The meeting, held at the Defence Intelligence and Security Headquarters in Mbuya, Kampala, reaffirmed both nations’ commitment to advancing regional stability.
This dialogue follows closely on the heels of General Kainerugaba’s recent talks with General Santino Deng Wol, South Sudan’s Chief of Defence Forces, in late September.
These high-level meetings mark a steady diplomatic effort to strengthen cross-border security collaboration, especially in light of the ongoing threats from groups like the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) in Eastern DRC.
Uganda’s growing emphasis on regional cooperation is further underscored by recent defence engagements with military leaders from Rwanda, Ethiopia, and South Sudan, highlighting a coordinated approach in military support and intelligence sharing across East Africa.
Ugandan military leaders present at the meeting included Lt. Gen. Kayanja Muhanga, Commander of Land Forces, and Lt. Gen. Charles Okidi, Air Force Commander. Top FARDC officials joined Gen. Songesa, illustrating the DRC’s commitment to the alliance.
Following DRC President Felix Tshisekedi’s recent visit to Uganda, this latest engagement reinforces a pattern of closer collaboration between the two nations. With these discussions underway, the question arises: Is Uganda pioneering a new approach to bolstering regional security through strategic partnerships?
As East and Central Africa continue to grapple with security challenges, these proactive dialogues represent a strong step towards sustained peace and stability.
