UPDF hailed for restoring normalcy in eastern DR Congo

The East African Community Regional Force (EACRF) commander, Maj. Gen. Aphaxard Kiugu, has commended the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) contingent in eastern DR Congo for restoring normalcy in the region that has long been a haven for rebel groups.

Speaking on Tuesday, he said the Ugandan army had performed to his « full satisfaction ».

Kiugu said the UPDF, comprised of « professional and deployable men », has managed to « restore normalcy in its area of responsibility by enabling free movement of the local people, protecting their lives and property, and aiding the functioning of the humanitarian aid workers ».

He made the remarks during his last command visit to the UPDF at its tactical contingent headquarters in Niongera Kiwanja of Rutshuru territory, according to a statement released by UPDF deputy spokesperson Col Deo Akiiki.

Kiugu bade farewell to the contingent troops and used the occasion to check on the progress of the withdrawal of UPDF from DR Congo.

“I have, therefore, come for my last visit to UGACON and to also see you before you exit out of the mission area,” he said, adding that he would be the last person to leave DRC after confirming the complete withdrawal of the Ugandan contingent.

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Homes like this one in Ituri province in DRC were abandoned due to rebel activity in the area

The EACRF commander also noted that the level of co-operation witnessed among the EACRF Forces was a clear exhibition that the forces can operate within East Africa.

He also lauded the Ugandan contingent commander, Col Michael Walaka Hyeroba, for exhibiting good leadership and management of his troops during the execution of the EACRF mandate.

On his part, Hyeroba thanked the EACRF commander and the entire force headquarter team for the guidance, timely support and co-operation they have accorded to the UPDF contingent during its routine military activities during the mission.

He applauded the people of Rutshuru territory for welcoming, supporting and working very closely with their contingent in trying to find lasting peace in their area.

Kiugu later visited Uganda Contingent’s Amani (peace) forest, which measures four hectares, in Niongera Kiwanja and planted a tree as a remembrance before his departure to Goma.