Gen Kainerugaba Makes Historic Visit to Japan, Meets Defence Chief

The Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, made history as the first Ugandan CDF to visit Japan. 

During his visit, he met with the Chief of Staff of the Japan Self-Defence Force, Gen Yoshihide Yoshida, at the Ministry of Defence Headquarters in Ichigaya, Tokyo.

The two leaders discussed ways to strengthen collaboration between their militaries. Gen Kainerugaba’s visit follows a meeting with Japan’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Fujii Hisayuki, who reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.

Gen Kainerugaba is the first Ugandan CDF to ever visit Japan,

Today’s meeting follows that of Monday, where he met Japan’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Fujii Hisayuki, who reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, citing the significance of mutual visits by dignitaries in recent years.

During the Monday meeting, the CDF, who is also the Senior Presidential Adviser on Special Operations, expressed gratitude for Japan’s continued support in areas such as infrastructure development and education.

A statement from Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that Minister Fujii hoped to deepen bilateral co-operation ahead of the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9), scheduled to take place in Yokohama from 20th to 22nd August 2025.

The discussion also touched on Japan’s international security environment, with Minister Fujii sharing insights into the nation’s security policies.

Both leaders exchanged views on promoting peace and stability in the Horn of Africa region.