Museveni to Rally EAC Leaders for Stronger Regional Standby Force

President Yoweri Museveni, currently chairing the East African Community (EAC), has pledged to actively rally fellow Heads of State and Government to strengthen the Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF). This commitment was made during a briefing at State House, Entebbe, where Brig Gen Ronald Rwivanga, Director of the EASF, presented the force’s activities and requested presidential support.

The EASF, established in 2004 as part of the African Union’s framework, serves as a crucial peace and security mechanism. It integrates military, police, and civilian components to enable a coordinated and swift regional response to various challenges, including peace support operations and humanitarian crises.

Brig Gen Rwivanga urged President Museveni to leverage his influence to encourage Djibouti, Comoros, and Sudan to increase their participation in the EASF. He also highlighted the importance of convening an EASF Summit, which has not occurred since 2014, to renew political commitment, provide strategic direction, and foster higher-level ownership.

President Museveni affirmed his intention to discuss these matters with his counterparts and support the organization of the summit. He also committed to backing efforts to enhance the EASF’s financial capacity, particularly for humanitarian assistance, rescue operations, and emergency response. Specific financial details are expected to be determined once the summit convenes.

This engagement coincides with the ongoing 36th Ordinary Policy Organs Meeting of the EASF in Kampala, which brings together member state representatives to address strategic and operational matters. Brig Gen Rwivanga also updated the President on Uganda’s contributions, including a recent verification exercise assessing the nation’s pledged military, police, and civilian capabilities for the force.

Future engagements, including President Museveni’s upcoming role chairing the African Union Assembly, are seen as opportunities to further advance discussions on regional security and the EASF’s mandate. The EASF leadership emphasizes that renewed political backing and adequate resources are vital for the force’s effectiveness in crisis response.

Source: Nile Post