The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) have handed over 22 former abductees of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) to the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC).
This was during a ceremony held in Kasindi, North Kivu, on Monday, July 22, 2024. The event marked a continuation of the collaborative efforts between Uganda and the DRC to combat the ADF, a militant group that has caused turmoil in the region.
Col. George Jet Turyabe presided over the event on behalf of Maj. Gen. Richard Otto, the Commander of the UPDF Operation Shujaa and Mountain Division.
“The handing over of rescued people will continue as long as the joint operation continues,” Col. Turyabe said.
He emphasized the ongoing commitment to rescue and rehabilitate individuals affected by the ADF’s violence and expressed gratitude towards the Bridgeway Foundation for their support in rehabilitating the rescued individuals.
Col. Desire Chibi Chabere, who represented the FARDC, expressed optimism regarding the success of Operation Shujaa.
“The rescued and rehabilitated people are a clear sign of our success. The ADF is a common enemy to the people of the DRC and Uganda. Our enemy is your enemy, and your enemy is our enemy,” Col. Chabere said.
Muhindo Muhasa Fundi, a former ADF abductee, expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of his peers.
“It’s only God who can reward you. We pray that He gives you more strength to defeat all the enemies of the two countries,” Fundi said.
The group of 22, which included nine children under the age of 18, had undergone a six-month rehabilitation process in Uganda after being rescued from captivity.
This initiative, facilitated by the Bridgeway Foundation, provided psychological support as well as vocational training in mechanics, electronics, tailoring, shoemaking, soap making, and hairdressing, equipping them with skills to reintegrate into their communities.
The ages of the rehabilitated individuals ranged from one month to 49 years. To assist in their resettlement, they were provided with essential non-food items aimed at helping them rebuild their lives after years spent in the jungles of the DRC.
The ceremony was attended by various officers from the UPDF Mountain Division and FARDC senior commanders.
