The Uganda Peoples' Defence Forces (UPDF) has reinforced its military ties with Algeria, with a focus on enhancing air and maritime capabilities as well as counter-terrorism efforts.
The Chief of Joint Staff, Maj Gen Jack Bakasumba, highlighted Uganda’s growing security capacity while addressing participants from Algeria’s High Military School’s Advanced War Course at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs Headquarters in Mbuya, Kampala.
Bakasumba praised the UPDF as a disciplined and results-driven force committed to regional security, emphasizing its role in peacekeeping missions.
“Wherever the UPDF operates, positive results follow. In Somalia, we have sacrificed due to patriotism and under the clear leadership of President Museveni, whose ideology emphasizes that African problems should be solved by Africans,” he said.
Uganda was the first country to deploy troops under the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) and has remained a key contributor to regional stability efforts. Bakasumba stressed the importance of strengthening military cooperation with Algeria, noting that the North African country has played a crucial role in training Ugandan forces.
“Last year, 15 Ugandan personnel received counter-terrorism training in Algeria. Combating terrorism requires a collective approach, and we are grateful for Algeria’s continued support,” he added.
Brig Gen Rabah Benhamouda, head of the visiting Algerian delegation, commended Uganda’s commitment to regional security and described the presence of Ugandan students in Algeria’s military schools as a sign of deepening cooperation.
“The presence of Ugandan students in our school reflects the robust military ties between our nations,” Benhamouda said.
He also lauded the recent visit by Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, to Algeria, calling it a key step in strengthening bilateral defence relations.
The visit by the Algerian military delegation is expected to further solidify security collaboration between the two countries, particularly in training and counter-terrorism initiatives, as Uganda continues to expand its role in regional peacekeeping operations.