Uganda and Japan have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, particularly in the area of defence cooperation.
Major General Jack Bakasumba, Chief of Joint Staff for the Uganda Peoples' Defence Forces (UPDF), called for collective regional efforts to address terrorism and other African challenges.
Speaking at a high-level meeting with Japan’s Deputy Head of Mission and Defence Attaché at the Ministry of Defence in Mbuya, Maj Gen Bakasumba emphasized the need for African unity in solving its own problems and ensuring leadership stability.
He highlighted Uganda's continued commitment to providing vital services, such as free education and healthcare to refugees, despite limited resources.
Further more he also praised the long-standing cooperation between Uganda and Japan, underscoring the value of Japan's ongoing support, which has contributed to Uganda's capacity-building efforts in several sectors.
Tomotaka Yoshimura, Japan’s Deputy Head of Mission, commended Uganda's role in regional stability and praised the country’s inclusive approach to integrating refugees into local communities.
Yoshimura emphasized Japan’s readiness to support the UPDF’s operations, viewing Uganda’s efforts as a model for regional peace and stability.
Japan’s Defence Attaché, Commander Keiko Kawashima, reiterated Japan’s commitment to Uganda by offering training programs in areas such as heavy equipment operation, further bolstering the defence cooperation between the two nations.
Uganda and Japan have maintained strong bilateral relations for years, rooted in development cooperation.
Japan has supported Uganda in various sectors, including education, healthcare, and infrastructure development, and the latest engagements reflect the evolving nature of their partnership, particularly in security.
The meeting was attended by key UPDF officials, including Brig Gen James Kinalwa, Col Naboth Mwesigwa, and Col William Kakuru, further cementing Uganda and Japan’s growing military ties.