Summary:
- Gen. Kainerugaba who also serves as the Senior Presidential Adviser for Special Operations says that both President Yoweri Museveni and President Félix Tshisekedi have set a target to complete the mission by the end of this year.
DRC: The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has urged the Ugandan troops involved in Operation Shujaa in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to intensify efforts to eradicate the remaining ADF fighters.
Gen. Kainerugaba who also serves as the Senior Presidential Adviser for Special Operations says that both President Yoweri Museveni and President Félix Tshisekedi have set a target to complete the mission by the end of this year. He said this on Thursday while visiting the joint forces involved in Operation Shujaa in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Gen Kainerugaba arrived in North Kivu Province before proceeding to Ituri Province, where he held discussions with commanders and troops about the progress of the mission. He was warmly received by the Commander of Operation Shujaa, Maj Gen Richard Otto.
The CDF was accompanied by senior officials, including the Commander of Land Forces, Lt Gen Kayanja Muhanga; Artillery Division Commander, Brig Gen Dan Kakono; and Col Albert Kashakamba.
During his address to the troops, Gen Kainerugaba expressed gratitude for their unwavering commitment to fighting the ADF and praised their patriotic service. As a gesture of appreciation, he hosted a combined Christmas and New Year luncheon for the troops.
Some soldiers vowed to capture key ADF commanders, including one known as ‘Bwakasi’ (Abu Wakasi), alive.
The progress of Operation Shujaa was evident during the visit, with civilians observed engaging in routine activities, such as transporting goods and farming.
However, abandoned, shrub-covered houses served as stark reminders of the ADF’s destructive impact before the operation began.
Operation Shujaa is a collaborative effort between the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) aimed at combating the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) terrorist group.
Launched in November 2021, Operation Shujaa has made significant strides, including the restoration of normalcy for civilian populations and a sharp decline in attacks on Ugandan territory.
The operation has also severely weakened the ADF, with several senior commanders neutralized. Currently, the group operates in small, scattered units beyond the jurisdiction of Operation Shujaa.
Gen Kainerugaba pledged to return to the operation area and challenged the troops to ensure the complete elimination of the enemy. His visit underscores the commitment of both the UPDF and FARDC to strengthening regional security and stability through cooperation and decisive action.
