The Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Jacob Marksons Oboth-Oboth, emphasized Uganda’s dedication to supporting the Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) in carrying out its duties.
During a meeting held on Thursday, May 2, 2024, at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs headquarters in Mbuya, Minister Oboth-Oboth expressed Uganda’s commitment to assisting EASF in fulfilling its responsibilities.
He praised the Force for its efforts in achieving its mandate, which includes tasks such as early warning, conflict prevention, management, and resolution.
Minister Oboth-Oboth also extended appreciation to the development partners of EASF, particularly highlighting the support in terms of funding. Jens Lindvig, the Danish Defence Attache to Kenya, who chairs the Friends of EASF, was acknowledged for their contributions.
Brig. Gen. Paul Kahuria Njema, the Director of the Eastern Africa Standby Force, recognized Uganda’s consistent support for EASF.
He emphasized Uganda’s significance as a valuable partner within EASF and expressed gratitude for its continuous assistance. Brig. Gen. Njema underscored the importance of unity among African nations and the necessity of pooling resources to address common challenges effectively.
Both Minister Oboth-Oboth and Brig. Gen. Njema urged member states of EASF to fulfill their obligations, emphasizing the need for African solutions to African problems.
The meeting witnessed the presence of several key officials, including Rossette Byengoma, the permanent secretary of the defence ministry, Maj. Gen. Jackson Bakasumba, the Chief of Joint Staff, Brig. Gen. Alex Olupot from Joint Staff Training and Doctrine, and Brig. Gen. Gaetano Omola, the Commandant of the Uganda Rapid Deployment Capability Centre.
