Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, convened a high-level meeting of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Joint Staff Committee on Tuesday at the Special Forces Command (SFC) headquarters in Entebbe. The session, described as a critical review of the nation’s security architecture, focused on assessing military readiness, internal stability, and operational effectiveness across regional and domestic deployments.
The meeting brought together senior military leadership, including Deputy CDF and Inspector General Lt. Gen. Sam Okiding, Chief of Joint Staff Lt. Gen. Jack Bakumba, service chiefs, division commanders, and commandants of independent units. The agenda centered on evaluating ongoing operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Somalia, and the broader East and Central African region, as well as internal security measures ahead of upcoming national events.
Discussions highlighted the UPDF’s role in counter-terrorism efforts, particularly in the DRC, where forces continue operations against the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF). The committee also reviewed Uganda’s contributions to the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), aimed at combating Al-Shabaab, and bilateral military engagements in South Sudan and Equatorial Guinea. Commanders reiterated commitments to maintaining “peak battle readiness” and enhancing combat capabilities to safeguard national sovereignty and regional stability.
General Muhoozi, who also serves as the Senior Presidential Advisor on Special Operations, emphasized force modernization and discipline during the session. Official photographs from the event depicted the top brass in newly issued green uniforms, a detail noted by analysts as symbolizing a broader push for uniformity and professionalism within the ranks. The meeting took place ahead of scheduled national timelines, though specifics about future military priorities remain undisclosed.
The UPDF’s extensive regional deployments underscore its role as a key stabilizing force in East and Central Africa. With thousands of troops stationed abroad, the military continues to balance external peacekeeping mandates with domestic security challenges. The Joint Staff Committee’s monthly reviews are designed to align strategic objectives, address emerging threats, and ensure operational cohesion across the force.
While the session concluded without immediate policy announcements, the emphasis on readiness and modernization reflects ongoing efforts to adapt to evolving security landscapes. The next meeting of the committee is expected to focus on logistical updates and regional threat assessments, according to internal sources familiar with the schedule.
