Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, visited Kinshasa on Saturday for important talks with His Excellency President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The meeting, held at the State House, marked a major step forward in the growing security cooperation between the two neighboring countries.
The discussions between Gen Kainerugaba and President Tshisekedi focused on strengthening military collaboration and promoting peace and stability in the region. Both leaders agreed on the importance of working together closely to tackle shared security threats, especially in the eastern part of the DRC, which has faced years of conflict and violence.
This high-level meeting came just a day after Gen Kainerugaba met with the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC) at the military headquarters. These back-to-back meetings show the deepening partnership between Uganda and the DRC, especially in the fight against armed groups that have long terrorized the region.
One of the major highlights of their cooperation is Operation Shujaa, a joint military effort by the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and FARDC launched in November 2021. The operation targets the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a rebel group responsible for many attacks on civilians. Since the start of Operation Shujaa, the joint forces have made significant progress by weakening rebel bases, restoring peace in many areas, and allowing thousands of displaced families to return home safely.
President Tshisekedi praised the UPDF for its key role in the success of the mission. He welcomed Gen Kainerugaba warmly and expressed his appreciation for Uganda’s commitment to regional peace. In response, Gen Kainerugaba reaffirmed Uganda’s dedication to the partnership and promised continued support in the fight for stability.
The visit is part of Gen Kainerugaba’s broader diplomatic mission across Africa. In recent months, he has met with several African leaders to support peace-building efforts and promote cooperation across the continent. His meeting with President Tshisekedi further proves Uganda’s active role in building a more secure and united Africa.
Together, Uganda and the DRC are setting an example of how neighboring countries can join forces to solve security problems, help their people live in peace, and build a better future for the region.
