The Chief of Joint Staff of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), Major General Jack Bakasumba, has commended the robust defence partnership between Uganda and Zimbabwe, calling for continued cooperation to further deepen the alliance.
Representing the Chief of Defence Forces, Maj Gen Bakasumba made the remarks during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the Zimbabwe National Defence University (ZNDU) at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs headquarters in Mbuya. The visiting team comprised 22 course participants along with academic staff.
Maj Gen Bakasumba attributed the UPDF’s operational development and institutional stability to the visionary leadership of President Yoweri Museveni, whom he praised as a committed Pan-Africanist. “His guidance has allowed us to grow and accomplish numerous successful operations. It formed a solid base for our training and operational capabilities,” he stated.
Reiterating Uganda’s dedication to regional security, Maj Gen Bakasumba emphasized the UPDF’s deployment in Somalia as an example of Uganda’s unwavering support for African-led peace initiatives. “Although we don’t border Somalia, our clear ideology and belief in African-driven solutions compel us to continue playing a role in peacekeeping there,” he added.
He expressed gratitude to the Zimbabwean team for selecting Uganda as a destination for their regional study visit, calling it a demonstration of the longstanding camaraderie between the two countries. “We’re privileged that you included Uganda in your study tour. Your visit is deeply appreciated and not taken lightly,” Maj Gen Bakasumba noted.
Brigadier General Francis Chakauya, who headed the Zimbabwean delegation, thanked the UPDF for the warm welcome and hospitality, noting that the visit was motivated by the strong historical and strategic links between the two nations. “We chose Uganda because of the exceptional relations we enjoy a relationship rooted in a shared commitment to national advancement. We look forward to its continued growth,” Brig Gen Chakauya said.
Also in attendance were Maj Gen Don Nabasa, in charge of Joint Staff Policy and Strategy; Maj Gen Felix Kulayigye, Director of Defence Public Information; Brig Gen Godwin Karugaba, overseeing Joint Staff Logistics; Brig Gen Robert Mugabe, handling Joint Staff Finance; Brig Gen Wycliffe Keita, responsible for Training and Doctrine; Brig Gen Abdul Rugumayo, Deputy Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security; along with several other senior military officials
