The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) and senior leaders remain committed to strengthening Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) operations in Karamoja Sub-region.
This recommitment was made today at the closure of an Induction Course for CIMIC centre coordinators that was held at Moroto district headquarters.
Participants included UPDF General and Senior Officers, Resident District Commissioners (RDCs), District Chairpersons, Mayors, representatives of key partners and members from civil society organizations, among others across Karamoja Sub-region.
The induction program is a steady follow-up after CIMIC coordination centres were launched in September 2023.
In his remarks and presentation to thirty participants, the 3 Division Commander Maj Gen Don William Nabasa, reaffirmed the role of UPDF in peace building for the pacification of Karamoja Sub region. “Security services are the bedrock of socio-economic transformation. By employing all approaches including conducting CIMIC operations, we re-affirm our commitment towards pacification of the sub-region,” he said.
He applauded the key stakeholders for the joint security operations being conducted, noting that a positive impact is now visible as evidenced by the existing relative calmness and peace-building processes across Karamoja sub-region and its neighbouring districts.
Speaking at the Induction Course, the Chief of Civil-Military Cooperation (C/CIMIC), Brig Gen Emmanuel Rwashande noted that CIMIC operations will continue to establish and maintain good relations between the UPDF, local population and all other existing authorities; adding that this will be through coordination, cooperation, liaison, information sharing and community support.
Quoting the revolutionary leader and President of the Republic of Uganda H.E Gen YK Museveni, ” The Army is part of the people and people are part of the army. The people cannot be without the army nor can the Army exist without the people”, Brig Gen Rwashande asserted that UPDF values her strategic partners (the people), remains a pro-people army, derives its power from the population and must be subordinate to the civil authorities.
He noted that CIMIC operations will not only enhance commendable relations among security forces and communities but also help to assess and identify the critical needs of the people.
He added that such needs can be addressed through the implementation of Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) at grassroots levels.
Taking advantage of the current conducive conditions and vibrant media space across Uganda, the Defence Spokesperson, Brig Gen Felix Kulayigye urged participants to further engage and utilise media houses in mobilization, promotion of government programs and consolidation of achievements.
On his part, Mr. Ambrose Onoria, the RDC for Kotido district and regional whip noted that the operationalization of CIMIC centres and induction program will help to bridge the gap between security commanders and community, create better understanding and harmony to achieve desired common goals.
The Nakapiripirit LC 5 Chairperson Hon Nangiro John appreciated the army leadership for revamping CIMIC centres and organizing an induction program, saying this is an important initiative in strengthening human security and enhancing a positive mindset change.
At the closure of the induction program, General Officers and participants developed resolutions and strategies to enhance CIMIC coordination in support of disarmament Operations in Karamoja Sub-region.
