The Ugandan People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) have agreed to enhance their collaboration. The leaders of both defense forces convened at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs Headquarters in Mbuya on April 25, 2024, for their annual bilateral security conference.
High on the agenda of the conference was the need to establish stronger defense ties between Zimbabwe and Uganda to address the fast-evolving security challenges faced by the region. Major General James Birungi, the Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security for Uganda, emphasized the importance of cooperation, stressing that joint action was required to effectively tackle the complex security concerns prevalent in the region.
“We strive for these relations, built on a strong foundation of history and culture, to continuously grow for our mutual benefit,” stated Major General Birungi during his address at the conference.
Echoing his counterpart’s sentiment, Major General Thomas Moyo, Zimbabwe’s Chief of Staff-Defence Intelligence, underlined the significance of the meeting in promoting the principles of Pan-Africanism and nurturing mutual respect between nations. He expressed confidence that the enhanced collaboration between Zimbabwe and Uganda would prove fruitful in countering shared security challenges such as terrorism, human trafficking, smuggling, and illegal migration.
The attendees of the conference included Brigadier General Abdul Rugumayo, Deputy Chief of Defence Intelligence, as well as directors, senior officers, and junior officers from both the Zimbabwean and Ugandan defense forces.
Collaboration between the UPDF and the ZDF has steadily grown over the years, with joint military exercises and intelligence sharing already taking place. With the signing of an agreement to increase cooperation, both countries are expected to work closely together, pooling their resources and expertise to tackle security threats within the region.
The collaboration will not only strengthen the defense forces individually but also contribute to peace and stability across the African continent. By fostering partnerships among African nations, the conference aims to build a united front against security challenges that transcend national borders.
The bilateral security conference marks a significant step forward in regional security cooperation. With Uganda and Zimbabwe leading the way, it is hoped that other African nations will follow suit, fostering a collaborative environment that ensures a safer, more prosperous future for the entire region.
