The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has said that its troops in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) will adopt a ‘Forward Defensive Posture’ in tackling the intensifying security crisis in Eastern DRC particularly in the North Kivu region.
This strategic move comes as the M23 Movement continues its clashes with the FARDC (Armed Forces of the DRC), which now threaten the security in the region.
Acting Major General Felix Kulayigye, Director of Defence Public Information, mentioned that the decision was crucial to deter exploitation by other armed groups and ensure Uganda’s national interests are secured until peace is restored.
“The aim of the measure will be to deter and deny the numerous other negative armed groups operating in eastern DRC from exploiting the situation and to safeguard and secure Uganda’s interests,” he said.
In previous reports, Uganda has been instrumental in supporting DRC’s fight against insurgent groups, particularly through joint operations like Operation Shujja, which began in November 2021.
Read Also: Opposition MPs Demand Clarity on Uganda-DRC Relations Amid Border Threats
This operation has led to the significant degradation of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) operating within the region. The UPDF, working closely with FARDC forces, continues to monitor and address the ongoing security threats from the ADF and other extremist groups exploiting the region’s instability.
In a statement released by UPDF on 31 January 2025, Kulayigye said that since the launch of Operation Shujja, the joint forces of UPDF and FARDC have severely degraded ADF’s ability to carry out attacks.
Read Also: War of Words Erupts as Rwanda , South Africa Clash Over DRC Conflict
“We will continue to aggressively pursue the remnants of the ADF wherever they may attempt to hide or operate,” he said.
As the situation in North Kivu worsens, UPDF’s intervention is pivotal in safeguarding Uganda’s borders while fostering broader regional stability.
“Our forces are closely monitoring the unfolding security situation in eastern DRC, and we are committed to maintaining a presence until normalization is restored,” Kulayigye noted.
The measure reflects Uganda’s ongoing commitment to counteracting violent extremism and its strategic interests in central Africa.
