EAC Regional Force Commanders visits Ugandan contingent in DRC

The Force Commander EACRF Maj Gen Aphaxard Kiugu, in the company of Brig Generals Emmanuel Kaputa and Michael Kibuye, Col Jok Akech, Lt Col Denis Obiero among other Staff Officers on 12 August visited Uganda troops in Mabenga & Chengerero FOBs, Rutshuru territory, Eastern DRC. 

He was received by Col Michael Hyeroba-UGACON Commander & briefed by Commanding Officers Lt Col Samuel Lubega–Mabenga FOB & Lt Col David Matovu-Chengerero FOB respectively on the current security situation,achievements,humanitarian assistance efforts,challenges & future plans.

He was informed of the return of Internally Displaced Persons to their homes and the opening up of the Main Supply Route along Bunagana-Rutshuru-Goma, signifying a substantial resumption of normalcy in the area. 

Addressing the troops, the FC commended them for the milestones achieved & professionalism exhibited during operations. He noted that since the deployment of UPDF in the Eastern subsector, farming & other economic activities have resumed as well as movement of people & goods.

He was however concerned about the state of environmental degradation in Mabenga as people cut trees for charcoal business and called on key stakeholders to arrest the situation before it is uncontrollable.

 "I am impressed by your state of preparedness, morale & combat readiness. This implies you are prepared to undertake the tasks bestowed upon us by the East African Community Heads of State, which remains securing Eastern DRC for peace and stability in the region," he said.

The FC reminded the troops that the Protection of Civilians takes precedence as we perform our duties in the fulfilment of the EACRF mandate. During the visit, he interacted with a section of the public who appreciated the presence of  EACRF troops in the region.