Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, met with the French Ambassador to Uganda Her Excellency Virginie Leroy, to discuss enhanced military cooperation and training between the two countries.
The meeting was held at the Special Forces Command (SFC) Headquarters in Entebbe on 12th December 2025, and included senior military and diplomatic officials from both nations.
During the talks, General Kainerugaba acknowledged the longstanding defence relationship between Uganda and France, saying that his engagement with French diplomatic and defence representatives started way back in 2011.
“We are grateful for France’s continued support, especially in strengthening our mission in Somalia through specialized training and operational capabilities, Gen Kainerugaba said.
“The UPDF has benefited greatly from French expertise in Mountain Warfare, and many of our officers have received invaluable professional training at French-affiliated military colleges,” he added.
Ambassador Virginie Leroy, responding to the CDF, noted the importance of ongoing military collaboration.
“France values its partnership with Uganda in defence and security. We remain committed to supporting the UPDF in building professional and capable forces,” Leroy said.
The discussions also touched on potential future initiatives aimed at further boosting Uganda’s defence readiness, including joint exercises and continued officer training programs.
Officials noted that military cooperation forms a foundation of the Uganda-France bilateral relationship, complementing broader collaborations in infrastructure, energy, and water sectors, highlighting the strategic importance of continued engagement.
With plans for joint exercises, continued officer training, and enhanced operational cooperation, both countries signaled a commitment to bolstering regional security while maintaining broader collaborations in development sectors.
The engagement highlights the strategic importance of sustained military and diplomatic ties in advancing Uganda’s defence readiness and international partnerships.
