The 13th Ushirikiano Imara training exercise, which commenced on June 8, 2024, at the Rwanda Military Academy in Gako, has concluded today. This annual exercise brought together a total of 1130 participants from Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, and the United Republic of Tanzania, aiming to bolster regional security cooperation and readiness among East African Community (EAC) partner states.
Hon. Juvenal Marizamunda, Rwanda’s Minister of Defense, presided over the closing ceremony. In his address, he underscored the significance of collaboration and mutual support among EAC nations in tackling contemporary security challenges effectively. Minister Marizamunda emphasized the exercise’s role in fostering unity and enhancing operational capabilities across the region.
During the event, CP Paul Nkore, serving as the Police Commissioner for the EAC region, delivered a keynote urging law enforcement officers to apply the insights gained and relationships forged during the exercise. He emphasized the importance of leveraging these experiences to collectively strive towards a safer and more secure future for East Africa.
Throughout the training exercise, participants engaged in various scenarios designed to enhance operational readiness and strengthen bonds between participating nations. Police officers, in particular, undertook diverse roles, demonstrating professionalism and cooperation in simulated environments that mirrored real-world challenges. These practical exercises provided invaluable learning opportunities for all involved.
The exercise focused on four main themes: counter-piracy, counter-terrorism, disaster management, and peace support operations. Each theme was carefully crafted to address critical aspects of regional security, preparing participants to respond effectively to multifaceted security threats across East Africa.
In a separate address, Lt. Gen Sam Okiding, Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, lauded Uganda’s contingent for their exemplary performance during the exercise. He commended the officers for upholding high standards of discipline and professionalism throughout the training period. Lt. Gen Okiding emphasized that Uganda’s active participation underscored its steadfast commitment to regional security cooperation and solidarity within the East African Community.
According to Lt. Gen Sam Okiding, the successful conclusion of the 13th Ushirikiano Imara exercise marks another milestone in regional military collaboration. Participants depart with enhanced skills, strengthened partnerships, and a renewed dedication to collective security efforts across the East African region.
Lt. Gen Sam Okiding added that as nations continue to face evolving security challenges, exercises like Ushirikiano Imara play a crucial role in fostering resilience, cooperation, and preparedness among member states of the EAC.
