The ongoing joint operation between the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC), code-named “Operation Shujaa,” has been praised by Congolese nationals in North Kivu, Beni territory, Karuruma, and Kalibuli village for bringing peace and security to the region.

According to Major Bilal Katamba, the Public Information Officer Operation Shujaa, in a public meeting held on August 15, 2023, in Kalibuli village, the locals praised the combined efforts and requested UPDF Commander Land Forces, Lt Gen Kayanja Muhanga, to express their gratitude to President Museveni, and his counterpart President Tshisekedi, for cooperating to defeat the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) terrorist.

The Beni territory Chief of Works, Muse Kakule said that, development cannot happen without peace, adding that peace is necessary for progress.

“There can’t be development without peace, but now with this peace, roads can now be done. We are working on the Beni-Butembo road to facilitate free and easy movements for trade and development. We thank you, UPDF and FARDC for enabling this to happen,” Kakule said.

Matara Tembeya, the Beni territory Chief representative in Karuruma, pleaded with his fellow Congolese to support Operation Shujaa so that there will be complete peace in their region.

“UPDF and FARDC need our support, let us join them, they have done a great job. We must unite and push the terrorists out of our area,” Tembeya said.

Lt Gen Muhanga thanked the locals for their support that has enabled the joint forces to defeat the ADF in Ituri province especially in the areas of Tchabi, Kainama, Kambi ya Yua, Boga, Malibongo, Zunguluka and Malulu.

“We are now focusing on Mwalika valley. So, we need your full support to chase the ADF from here,” Muhanga noted.

“Mwalika valley, once a stronghold of the ADF was used for reception and training of the ADF recruits under the watch of senior ADF commanders Amigo and Mulaalo. Mulaalo was put out of action by the joint forces early this year while Amigo, has on several attacks survived narrowly. The joint forces have put their main offensive efforts in Mwalika valley to rid the areas off all terrorists,” Lt Gen Muhanga added.

Lt Gen Muhanga later paid a visit to the troops and tactical commanders with Maj Gen Dick Olum, the overall Commander of Operation Shujaa, Senior FARDC Operational Commander in Kivu, Col Gilbert Bakavuo, the Task Force Commander of Beni, Col Munanga, the Joint Operations Coordinator, Col Makela and Col Rizza Ibazza.