Uganda is Safe and Peaceful – Maj Gen Bakasumba

Maj Gen Jackson Bakasumba, Chief of Joint Staff of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), has reassured both citizens and foreigners of Uganda's safety, asserting that the country is secure for business and tourism.

Speaking on behalf of Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Chief of Defence Forces, during a bilateral meeting with Italian Ambassador to Uganda, Mauro Massoni, at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MODVA) headquarters in Mbuya, Kampala.

Maj Gen Bakasumba emphasized, "The security of the country is very peaceful, and there is no cause for alarm."

The meeting focused on enhancing cooperation between Uganda and Italy in areas such as military training, equipment, and business. Maj Gen Bakasumba lauded Italy's significant support in stabilizing Uganda through various socio-economic transformation programs.

Regarding the African Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), Maj Gen Bakasumba praised international partners for their efforts in pacifying Somalia amid Al-Shabaab threats.

Highlighting UPDF's dedication to restoring peace in Somalia, he stated, “Surely, UPDF has sacrificed a lot for the mission as if it is our own country, and yet Uganda does not share a border with Somalia. Uganda’s commitment in Somalia is great.”

Maj Gen Bakasumba also addressed the challenge posed by the Allied Democratic Force (ADF) terrorists, noting significant progress in degrading the group's capabilities through collaboration with the DR Congo army.

Referring to the recent incident involving the death of tourists in Kasese, he assured, “Don’t worry, the park is now very safe. What happened in Kasese was a wake-up call to ADF. We encourage tourists to come in big numbers.”

He appealed to the Italian government for further support in training UPDF personnel and acquiring modern equipment.

Ambassador Massoni expressed gratitude for the opportunity to strengthen ties, emphasizing the importance of collaboration.

“Our collaboration with the army is very important. We have to make our relationship with Uganda very important,” he said.

The meeting was attended by several dignitaries, including the Italian Defence Attaché to Uganda, Col Marco Poddi, Col Younes Bagada, and Col William Kakuru.