The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Land Force has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening international military partnerships following a high-level courtesy visit by the Republic of South Korea’s Defence Attaché to Uganda, Colonel Kim Seha.
The meeting, held at the Land Force Headquarters in Bombo, underscored growing cooperation between Uganda and South Korea in the areas of defence, security, and capacity building.
Speaking during the engagement, the Chief of Staff – Land Force, Brigadier General Chris Bagonza, applauded the South Korean government for its sustained support to the UPDF, particularly in professional military education and joint defence initiatives.
Brig Gen Bagonza noted that several UPDF personnel have benefitted from training opportunities in South Korean military institutions over the years, enhancing their skills and operational effectiveness.
“Over the years, our personnel have had the opportunity to train in South Korean defence colleges. However, we appeal for more slots,” he stated.
Brig Gen Bagonza further emphasized the UPDF’s interest in expanding cooperation beyond academic training to include advanced military technology, engineering, and logistics—areas seen as critical to modernizing Uganda’s defence capabilities.
In his remarks, Col Kim commended the UPDF for its significant contribution to regional and international peace and stability. He highlighted Uganda’s active role in peacekeeping missions across Somalia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and South Sudan, describing these efforts as widely recognized and respected globally.
Col Kim also reaffirmed South Korea’s commitment to deepening defence collaboration with Uganda, expressing readiness to share advanced military technology and expertise with partner forces such as the UPDF.
“We highly recommend Uganda’s participation in the upcoming Korean Expo to explore a wide range of defence exhibitions,” he said, pointing to opportunities for knowledge exchange and technological advancement.
The meeting was attended by several senior UPDF officers, including Brigadier General Edward Mutawe, Director of Human Resource Management; Lieutenant Colonel Peter Atuhairwe, Director of Counter Intelligence at Land Forces; and Lieutenant Colonel Rolland Bwebare, Military Assistant to the Chief of Staff Land Forces, among others.