MBUYA – The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen David Muhoozi has met visiting officers of the Security and Defence Studies Program (SDSP) from the Republic of South Africa.
During the meeting at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs headquarters in Mbuya, Gen Muhoozi noted that there exists a shared history between Uganda and South Africa to achieve social economic transformation through similar protracted struggles. “Both Uganda and South Africa have a historic relationship in terms of fighting liberation struggles despite the tensions that existed before independence,” Gen Muhoozi said.
He added that UPDF is built on an outlook that focuses on uplifting national interests as opposed to one that embraces self-identity.
The CDF appreciated the South African National Defence Force for choosing Uganda as a study destination, which he said, broadens the lenses around the world because of the existing interconnection through the available information.
Gen Muhoozi further remarked that both Uganda and South Africa need to work together to exploit opportunities (most especially those in agriculture, sports and nature) to promote stability and prosperity.
He urged visiting officers to shape narratives through having positive perceptions, saying that networks exist to mitigate challenges like terrorism, crime, youth explosion, diseases, risk mitigation, needs assessment and migrations.
The Head of Delegation and the Chief Joint Training Officer of the South African National Defence Force Maj Gen Lawrence Kholokani Mbatha, extended his gratitude to the UPDF in the restoration of peace and stability, both in Uganda and beyond.
He pledged the commitment of South African National Defence Forces (SANDF) towards efforts aimed at creating lasting peace and stability in the region.
Both delegations exchanged momentos in honor of each army’s distinguished service.
The South African delegation will also have a guided tour of the Parliament of Uganda, Kaweweta Recruit Training School, Senior Command and Staff College-Kimaka, Source of River Nile, Quality Chemicals Limited, and Namugongo Martyrs Shrines, among others.
The meeting was also attended by the UPDF Chief of Personnel and Administration Brig George Igumba, the Defense Spokesperson Brig Richard Karemire, UPDF Senior Officers among others.
