Maj Gen Bakasumba Calls for Stronger Regional Cooperation for Africa’s Security

Maj Gen Jack Bakasumba, Chief of Joint Staff, has emphasized the need for African countries to work together to address regional security challenges.

Speaking to a delegation of Directing Staff and Students from the Nigerian Army College of Logistics and Management, Maj Gen Bakasumba who represented the Chief of Defence Forces said that “African solutions for African problems” can only be achieved through continued joint training and operations.

The meeting, which took place at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs Headquarters in Mbuya, is part of the Nigerian delegation’s regional tour under the theme “Enhancing National Security Through Regional Cooperation.”

He highlighted Uganda’s commitment to regional peace efforts, driven by Pan-Africanism and a clear ideological orientation. “The Ugandan soldier must be told what to do and for what,” he added, emphasizing the importance of political will in regional interventions.

Maj Gen Bakasumba expressed confidence in Africa’s ability to defend itself, saying, “Regional security and security of Africa lies in our hands. We are men enough and have the capabilities to defend our Continent.”

The Nigerian delegation, led by Commandant Maj Gen Wilson Benjamin Etuk, acknowledged Uganda’s significant contributions to regional security.

Maj Gen Etuk observed that Uganda and Nigeria have enjoyed a long-standing relationship, particularly between their militaries, built on shared values and cooperation which has seen UPDF officers attend various military courses in Nigeria and Uganda’s First Chief Justice, Sir Egbert Udo Udoma.

Present were: the Joint Staff – Logistics, Brig Gen Godwin Karugaba; Deputy Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security, Brig Gen Abdul Rugumayo, and senior UPDF Officers.