security 10 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
UPDF Urges Enhanced Eastern African Security Cooperation
Uganda's military leadership has called for stronger regional security mechanisms and cooperation among Eastern African states to confront evolving threats. A key meeting in Kampala is currently deliberating on reforms to bolster the Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF). Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/updf-calls-for-stronger-eastern-african-security-cooperation-5553302
Lieutenant General Jack Bakasumba, the UPDF Chief of Joint Staff, emphasized the critical need for enhanced cooperation and robust security mechanisms across Eastern Africa to tackle emerging challenges.
Speaking at the 36th Ordinary Policy Working Group meeting of the Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) in Kampala, Lt Gen Bakasumba highlighted that the region requires institutions capable of both foreseeing new threats and effectively responding to current realities.
“Peace is sustained through cooperation and secured through institutions that are capable of anticipating tomorrow’s challenges while responding to today’s realities,” he stated. He further noted that while Eastern Africa possesses significant potential, including economic growth and a youthful population, sustainable peace is paramount to unlocking this potential.
Uganda reiterated its commitment to the EASF and the African Union’s peace and security agenda, urging member states to collaboratively build a more resilient regional security architecture. “African solutions to African problems shouldn’t wait for anyone to come in and rescue us. We have the capabilities. We have the numbers,” Lt Gen Bakasumba asserted.
Brigadier General Ronald Rwivanga, the EASF Director, stressed the importance of regional self-reliance, especially as the continent faces complex security issues with potentially decreasing external support for peace operations. He called for African nations to prepare to take greater ownership of their security.
Brig Gen Rwivanga described the evolving security landscape as an opportunity for the EASF to enhance its capabilities. He acknowledged the progress made over two decades in areas like training and exercises, but stressed that operational readiness must be complemented by sound governance, sustainable financing, and effective oversight.
The meeting aims to lay the technical groundwork for reforms designed to strengthen the EASF, ensuring its credibility, effectiveness, and long-term sustainability in a demanding global environment.