UPDF General Wilson Mbadi engaged in a bilateral meeting with representatives from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs Offices in Mbuya-Kampala on January 16, 2024. This meeting aimed to strengthen the collaborative efforts between the UPDF and the ICRC, a key humanitarian organization operating in Uganda since 1971.
Mr. Christoph Sutter, the ICRC Head of Regional Delegation, emphasized the importance of the ICRC’s relationship with Uganda. He lauded Kampala’s role as the regional office, facilitating close interaction with colleagues in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), South Sudan, Sudan, Somalia, and Ethiopia. Mr. Sutter highlighted the meeting’s focus on seeking UPDF’s advice to enhance ICRC activities, particularly in promoting international humanitarian law in the region, emphasizing impartiality, neutrality, and independence.
The ICRC’s discreet approach and collaboration with UPDF in various initiatives, including detainee access and refugee management, were acknowledged. Mr. Sutter expressed gratitude for the positive collaboration and revealed ongoing efforts to finalize a Memorandum of Understanding with UPDF.
In response, Gen Wilson Mbadi expressed satisfaction with the existing collaboration between UPDF and ICRC, emphasizing effective coordination on humanitarian law observance. He stressed the need for seamless information flow in Eastern DRC, where Operation Shujaa is ongoing, emphasizing the sovereign nature of Congo.
Gen Mbadi praised Operation Shujaa for contributing to the improved situation in Eastern Congo. He highlighted positive developments in Boga and Chabi in Ituri province, where locals disbanded UN camps and returned to normalcy, reopening schools, churches, and gardens. The UPDF Chief urged ICRC to expedite notifications for activities in conflict zones, ensuring efficient coordination.
Addressing concerns about radicalized groups like ADF, Gen Mbadi expressed doubts about the possibility of dialogue due to their warped religious ideology. He emphasized the necessity of eliminating such groups to ensure peace, especially when their motives are unclear.
Regarding the presence of South African and SADC troops in DRC, Gen Mbadi suggested that ICRC seek clarification from DRC authorities. He cautioned that increased troop presence might escalate armed conflicts, leading to more refugees, and recommended ICRC prepare facilities accordingly.
Gen Mbadi clarified UPDF’s approach to errant soldiers, affirming adherence to the UPDF Act and MoU with DRC. He assured that soldiers deviating from standard procedures face legal consequences, highlighting the differentiation between misled individuals and ADF leaders responsible for atrocities.
On the issue of Prisoners Of War, Gen Mbadi outlined the cooperation between Uganda and DRC in handing over individuals based on mutual interests. He stressed UPDF’s commitment to peace and stability in the region.
