(Jinja) – European Union Heads of Mission in Uganda have recognized the vital contributions of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) to maintaining peace and stability in the region. This acknowledgment came during their recent visit to UPDF colleges in Jinja, where they met with the commandants of key military institutions.
His Excellency Jan Sadek, the EU Ambassador to Uganda, emphasized the significance of Uganda’s role in supporting regional security, particularly in Somalia. “We are here as one who shares the same vision to commend Uganda as a key player in supporting peace and stability in the region, especially Somalia. The agenda is to strengthen our history as good partners with Uganda in many aspects and to understand the security in the region,” Sadek stated.
During the visit, Major General Francis Okello, the Commandant of the National Defence College – Uganda (NDC-U), expressed gratitude for the enduring relationship between Uganda and the EU. He highlighted the importance of global partnerships in peace and security and acknowledged the UPDF’s efforts in maintaining stability across the region. Okello also conveyed hopes for increased collaboration with EU member state institutions to further enhance regional security.
Major General George Igumba, the Commandant of the Senior Command and Staff College (SCSC) in Kimaka, discussed the college’s role in the professional development of the defense forces. He noted that the establishment of the college aligns with a commitment made by President Yoweri Museveni to improve military professionalism. “The mission of the college is to bolster the leadership skills of officers to prepare them for higher command and staff roles,” Igumba explained. He expressed a desire to work closely with EU member state staff colleges to improve training methods and share resources, including educational materials.
The visiting ambassadors represented several EU countries, including Belgium, Denmark, Italy, France, the Netherlands, Sweden, Ireland, Austria, and Germany. Their attendance underscored the EU’s commitment to strengthening ties with Uganda in various sectors, including security and defense.
Also present at the meeting were Brigadier General Chris Ogwal, Commandant of the Junior Staff College, Brigadier General David Tweheyo, College Secretary of NDC-U, Brigadier General Kefa Nangeso, Dean of Studies at NDC-U, and Professor Rutanga, Head of Post Graduate Studies, among other military officials.
