The Chief of Joint Staff of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), Lieutenant General Jack Bakasumba, has called on Eastern African states to strengthen regional security mechanisms and enhance cooperation to effectively respond to emerging security threats.
Lt Gen Bakasumba made the call while opening the 36th Ordinary Policy Working Group meeting of the Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) in Kampala, where experts from member states are discussing reforms aimed at strengthening the region’s peace and security architecture.
He said Eastern Africa needs institutions capable of anticipating emerging threats while effectively responding to existing security challenges.
“Peace is sustained through cooperation and secured through institutions that are capable of anticipating tomorrow’s challenges while responding to today’s realities,” Lt Gen Bakasumba said.
He noted that the region’s growing economies, youthful population and expanding connectivity present significant opportunities, but stressed that sustainable peace and security are essential to unlocking this potential.
The EASF Director, Brigadier General Ronald Rwivanga, called for greater regional self-reliance as external support for peace operations declines.
He said African countries must increasingly take responsibility for maintaining peace and security on the continent, urging the EASF to strengthen its internal resilience.
Brig Gen Rwivanga noted that while the EASF has spent the past two decades building operational capacity through training, exercises and force verification, readiness must be supported by sound governance, sustainable financing and effective oversight.
The Chairperson of the Experts Working Group, Brigadier General Emmanuel Kazahura, urged experts to use their collective knowledge to develop recommendations that will strengthen the regional security mechanism.
The meeting is expected to provide technical recommendations on reforms in areas including resource mobilisation, finance and service regulations. The recommendations will be forwarded to the Committee of Chiefs of Defence and Security and ultimately to the Council of Ministers for consideration.
