The Ugandan military, known as the Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF), has started withdrawing its troops from eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. This withdrawal is part of a military operation called Operation Shujaa, which aims to combat the ADF militant group. The operation involves the redeployment of troops from three battalions, including the 2 Mountain Battalion, 83 Battalion, and Makindye Battalion.
The withdrawal process is being led by Major General Stephen Mugerwa, who oversees the joint operations of Operation Shujaa and commands the UPDF's mountain warfare division. During a farewell ceremony at the Mungamba military base in Ituri Province, Maj Gen Mugerwa praised the troops for their role in defeating the ADF in various battles. He noted that the joint efforts of Ugandan and Congolese forces have pushed the ADF militants away from the Uganda-DRC border, particularly in the Mwalika Valley.
Maj Gen Mugerwa emphasized that the operation has significantly reduced the security threats posed by the ADF. The militant group's activities had been a concern for both Uganda and the DRC. The successful pushback of ADF militants has contributed to enhanced security in both countries. However, Maj Gen Mugerwa cautioned the withdrawing troops that their mission is not yet over, as the ADF has not been completely defeated.
The troops are being reminded of their ongoing responsibility to protect Uganda's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Maj Gen Mugerwa urged them to remain vigilant and avoid behaviors that could put their lives at risk, such as complacency. He stressed the importance of maintaining good health to continue fulfilling their duties.
Operation Shujaa is a joint military operation launched in November 2021 by the UPDF and the Forces Armées de la République Démocratique du Congo (FARDC). The operation focuses on combating the ADF in eastern DRC, particularly in the provinces of Ituri and North Kivu. The ADF is a militant group that has been responsible for various attacks in the region.
The withdrawal of Ugandan troops marks a significant phase in the operation. The UPDF and FARDC will continue to collaborate to ensure that the gains made are consolidated and that the security situation in the region remains stable. The redeployment of troops is also seen as a step towards normalizing the security situation in the border regions between Uganda and the DRC.
As the troops begin their withdrawal, the focus shifts to sustaining the security gains achieved through Operation Shujaa. The operation has demonstrated the importance of collaboration between Uganda and the DRC in addressing common security challenges. The two countries will continue to work together to prevent the resurgence of militant groups in the region.
Key points
- The Ugandan military has started withdrawing its troops from eastern Democratic Republic of Congo as part of Operation Shujaa.
