UPDF has successfully transferred 22 former abductees and captives of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) to the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) at Kasindi, North Kivu in Eastern DRC.
These individuals, who had been undergoing a six-month rehabilitation program in Uganda, were handed over by Colonel George Jet Turyabe.
Representing the UPDF Operation Shujaa and Mountain Division Commander, Major General Richard Otto, Col. Turyabe emphasized the continuous nature of these handovers as long as the joint rescue operation persists.
He expressed gratitude to Bridgeway Foundation for its crucial support in the rehabilitation process.
Colonel Désiré Chibi Chabere, representing the FARDC on behalf of Major General Bruno Mandevu, hailed the rehabilitation and return of these individuals as a testament to the success of Operation Shujaa.
He highlighted the shared threat posed by the ADF to both DRC and Uganda, underscoring the collaborative effort needed to combat this common enemy. "Our enemy is your enemy and your enemy is our enemy," he stated.
Mr. Muhindo Muhasa Fundi, speaking on behalf of the rescued group, extended heartfelt thanks to both the UPDF and FARDC for their rescue.
"It's only God who can reward you. We pray that He gives you more strength to defeat all the enemies of the two countries," he said.
The 22 individuals, including 9 children under 18 years of age, were rescued from the four sectors of Operation Shujaa.
The rehabilitation process, conducted by Bridgeway Foundation in Uganda, provided not only psychological support but also vocational training in mechanics, electronics, tailoring, shoe making, soap making, and hairdressing, equipping the adults with skills to lead economically productive lives upon resettlement in their communities.
Ranging in age from 1 month to 49 years, the rehabilitated individuals were also provided with non-food items to help them start afresh after enduring years in the jungles of DRC.
The handover ceremony was attended by officers from the UPDF's Mountain Division and representatives from the FARDC, including Lt. Col. Idris Ayu and Maj. Mboyo-Lwoto, alongside Col. Désiré Chibi Chabere.