General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Chief of Defence Forces, vowed to strengthen the friendly ties between Uganda and India. He emphasized the importance of mutual cooperation and promised to foster lasting diplomatic relations. His commitment signals a new era of collaboration and unity between the two nations.
This was during a meeting with a National Defence College – India delegation at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Mbuya.
The Chief of Joint Staff, Maj Gen Jack Bakasumba, who represented the Chief of Defence Forces, commended the delegation for choosing Uganda as part of their case study and pledged to continue strengthening the existing friendship for the development of both countries.
Maj Gen Bakasumba told the delegation that the foundation of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces is built on its relations with the civilian population, making it a pro-people Army, “For us, we believe that people are the biggest tool, and whatever we do, the civilians are the foundation; that’s why we’re called the Peoples’ Army.”
The Chief of Joint Staff observed that despite the UPDF being a young army, it has achieved a lot in Uganda and across Africa. He added that Uganda has exported peace to several African countries, such as Somalia and the Democratic Republic of Congo. He said that Uganda subscribes to regional peace mechanisms like the Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF), which aims to improve the region’s security.
The Head of the Indian delegation, Air Vice Marshal Manish Kumah Gupta, said that course participants are in Uganda for a study tour to learn and understand Uganda better. He added that the tour will equip them with knowledge and experiences to help and guide them in their studies and daily duties.
AVM Manish Kumah Gupta said that he learned the history of Uganda after reading “Sowing the Mustard Seed” by H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, which was gifted to him by Colonel Nelson Aheebwa. “I read about the spirit of Pan Africanism, Economic Development, among others President Museveni has for Africa, and now we’re here to listen from the people on the ground.”
Uganda and India’s relations span decades. Indians play a significant role in Uganda’s economy, especially in manufacturing, trade, and banking, which provides employment opportunities. India military officers offer and conduct training for UPDF personnel in Uganda and India, which has enhanced the capabilities of the UPDF.
The meeting was attended by: the Joint Staff – Political Commissar Maj Gen Henry Matsiko, Joint Staff – Training and Doctrine Brig Gen Alex Olupot, Joint Staff – Logistics Brig Gen Godwin Karugaba, Deputy Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security Brig Gen Abdul Rugumayo, and senior UPDF officers.
