The Ugandan People's Defence Forces (UPDF) has a long history of peacekeeping and security operations, both within the region and internationally. In August 2026, Defence Minister Kiryowa Kiwanuka presented a motion to Parliament to deploy UPDF troops to Gaza as part of a United Nations Security Council authorised stabilisation force. The mission, which aims to combine civilian protection, humanitarian access, and security responsibilities, has raised questions about Uganda's role and mandate in the region.
The UN Security Council adopted Resolution 2803 on November 17, 2025, authorising a temporary international stabilisation force for Gaza under unified command. This force will operate under a complex security environment, requiring clear rules of engagement and operational limits. Uganda's experience in peacekeeping and peace enforcement provides a foundation for its participation in the Gaza mission. The UPDF has successfully served in Somalia since 2007 and continues to contribute to the African Union Somalia Mission (AUSSOM).
Under Section 38 of the UPDF Act, the President is authorised to deploy Ugandan troops outside the country for peacekeeping or peace enforcement subject to the law. The UPDF has undertaken various peace support and security operations in South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, including Operation Lightning Thunder in 2008. Additionally, Uganda has maintained a long history of security cooperation and military engagement in the Central African Republic.
Uganda's peacekeeping record has produced measurable results, with UPDF battle group 43 commended in May 2026 for liberating five key areas from Al-Shabaab control. The UPDF has also demonstrated its contribution to stabilization, civilian protection, and community recovery through outreach programmes that provide relief and medical services to local communities. President Museveni's regional security role remains important to Uganda, with the country assuming security responsibilities beyond its borders during periods of regional instability.
General Muhoozi Kainerugaba is a key figure in Uganda's contemporary security leadership, with extensive military experience and regional security engagements. His relevance lies within the broader security architecture through which Uganda deploys military strategy, leadership, and regional cooperation. However, the Gaza deployment remains a state policy, legal authority, and Parliamentary authorization, not an individual decision.
The success of the Gaza deployment ultimately depends on clear command structures, accountability, and professional conduct. Uganda approaches the mission as a state experienced in regional and international security operations, not seeking recognition or another battlefield. UPDF experience provides the foundation, Parliament's authorization provides the domestic legal basis, and professional leadership provides the capacity for disciplined execution.
The key question now is whether the mission is sufficiently defined to protect Uganda's national interests. If the mandate protects civilians, facilitates humanitarian access, establishes clear rules of engagement, provides accountable command, and respects Uganda's constitutional framework, participation can be understood as part of Uganda's contribution to international peace and security. Ultimately, Uganda's contribution should be measured by the professionalism of its soldiers, the clarity of their mandate, respect for the law, and commitment to protecting lives while preserving peace.
Key points
- The UPDF's experience in peacekeeping and security operations makes its deployment to Gaza viable.
- Uganda's participation in the Gaza mission depends on clear command structures, accountability, and professional conduct.
- The success of the mission will be measured by the professionalism of UPDF soldiers, the clarity of their mandate, and respect for the law.
