In a significant step to reinforce their joint campaign against the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), senior military officials from the UPDF and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) concluded a two-day operational review in Beni.
The discussions emphasized strengthening strategies to combat the ADF, an ISIS-linked terrorist group that has targeted civilians in Eastern Congo.
Maj. Gen. Chicco Tshitambwe, FARDC's Deputy Chief of General Staff for Operations, commended the joint commanders for the substantial progress in diminishing the ADF's operational stronghold and reducing its capacity to incite violence.
He reiterated the unwavering commitment from FARDC's strategic leadership, ensuring that the recommendations from the discussions would be prioritized in future operations.
Representing the UPDF, Maj. Gen. Richard Otto, Commander of the UPDF Mountain Division and Operation Shujaa, emphasized the value of the dialogue as a testament to the shared goals and steadfast dedication of both forces.
"This productive meeting highlights our unified approach in securing peace for the region," Maj. Gen. Otto stated, underlining the commitment of both armies to dismantle the ADF’s influence.
The meeting was also attended by Maj. Gen. Nyembo Abdallah and Maj. Gen. Bruno Mandevu, commanders of FARDC’s Ituri and Sokola Grand North divisions, respectively.
These leaders play crucial roles in coordinating field operations to weaken ADF’s presence in the region.
Since its launch in November 2021, Operation Shujaa has brought the UPDF and FARDC into a close collaboration, regularly reviewing the joint operation's progress to address emerging challenges and solidify strategies for success.