Uganda’s Minister for East African Community (EAC) Affairs, Kirunda Kivejinja has urged Armed Forces from the EAC to build on the stability in the region to enhance closer cooperation for stronger security.
Kivejinja who is also Uganda’s 2nd Deputy Prime Minister made tbe call on Wednesday as he officiated the regional launch of 37th UPDF Tarehe Sita civil-military activities at Boma Grounds in Butaleja District.
He urged the EAC Armed Forces to consolidate the peace and stability attained in their respective countries, to establish a good working relationship with the people.
“The foundation of UPDF is based on establishing and maintaining fruitful relationships with other armies,” said Kivejinja.
He noted that the army plays a bigger role in the foundation of a nation but this has to be based on discipline and intelligent leaders.
He called on all commanders and troops from the EAC Armed Forces to cooperate with the civilian population as they execute their medical and engineering works in Bukedi Region.
Kivejinja, however, warned residents not to live all their responsibilities to the troops; saying that if armies and civilians worked together then both can achieve greater heights.
The Minister of State for Defence in charge of General Duties, Col (Rtd) Charles Okello Engola, commended UPDF for securing the country and maintaining discipline throughout their operations which has facilitated the EAC integration process.
“UPDF thank you for creating and maintaining peace and security,” he said. He added that this was a symbolic achievement in the history of Bukedi region to host the first EAC Armed Forces week celebrations.
Lt Gen Ivan Koreta, who spoke on behalf of the UPDF fraternity lauded other EAC Armed Forces for accepting to join UPDF in celebrating the 2018 Tarehe Sita civil-military activities.
He said EAC Armed Forces look forward to having successful Tarehe Sita Celebrations where immunization, free HIV/AIDS Counselling and Testing, free eye and dental checks, minor civil engineering works, among others, will be executed in the districts of Butaleja, Busia, Kibuku, Pallisa,and Tororo.
The LCV Chairman for Butaleja, Richard Waaya, thanked UPDF for restoring peace and tranquility in the country. He urged all stakeholders in Bukedi region to emulate UPDF’s discipline in execution of work.
