The Uganda People’s Force (UPDF) in DRC has told the United Nations (UN) Military Staff Committee about their progress in DRC this was during the meeting that took place at the Ministry Of Defence and Veteran Affairs head officers in Mbuya, Kampala.
Col Deo Akiiki the deputy Defence spokesperson said that the main aim was to update the UN Military Staff Committee on the current progress of Operation Shujaa’s advancement and the prevailing conditions in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Maj. Gen. Dick Olum, spearheading the Mountain Division as part of the coalition combating the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) in Eastern DRC, detailed significant achievements. These encompassed liberating communities from the grip of ADF bondage, thwarting their hit-and-run tactics, preventing IED placement and infiltration, curbing ambushes, and safeguarding civilians and motorists along vital public routes.
“The unified efforts have resulted in the rescue, rehabilitation, and reintegration of numerous former child soldiers and their families. Furthermore, the operation has catalyzed socio-economic growth, fostering peace and stability in the region. Notably, enhanced cross-border trade between DRC and Uganda has been observed, facilitated by improved infrastructure and security measures. The ADF has suffered substantial losses in weaponry, with a significant number of insurgents neutralized,” Maj. Gen. Olum stated.
Expressing unwavering commitment, Maj. Gen. Olum emphasized the necessity to sustain the strategic military campaign and reactivate operations in former ADF strongholds to prevent their resurgence.
“The ADF threat transcends borders, necessitating collective action across the Great Lakes Region to eradicate this extremist menace before it proliferates further,” Maj. Gen. Olum underscored.
In response, Col. Carl Harris, head of the UN Military Staff Committee, acknowledged a newfound clarity regarding the Eastern DRC situation.
“We now possess a comprehensive understanding of the joint efforts by Ugandan and DRC forces in Eastern DRC, including their ongoing operations and the challenging circumstances they face. Their contributions are pivotal in establishing enhanced stability and security in the region,” Col. Harris remarked, acknowledging the significance of their endeavours.
