UPDF’s Evolving Role in Regional Security and National Development

UPDF’s Evolving Role in Regional Security and National Development

By Harto Agathon, Crown Media East Africa

Kampala, October 2024 – The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Muhoozi, outlined the Uganda People's Defence Forces' (UPDF) unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and security in Africa, reaffirming the military’s Pan-African values during a recent press engagement. His comments addressed the UPDF’s expanding role in response to the challenges of both the evolving global environment and the operational demands within the African context.

Pan-African Collective Security

General Muhoozi emphasized the UPDF’s dedication to helping other African nations address security issues, underscoring the historical principle of collective defence, rooted in the decolonization period and promoted by the Organization of African Unity (OAU), the predecessor to the African Union (AU).

> “In accordance with our Pan-Africanist orientation and background, we will continue to help our brothers in other African countries confront their security challenges when asked to do so. This is an important continuation of the principle of ‘collective defence’ first started by the OAU during the period of decolonisation. When one African country is insecure, we are all insecure,” General Muhoozi explained.

These remarks reflect Uganda’s ongoing role in peacekeeping operations, security assistance, and collaborative efforts within the region, particularly in conflict-ridden areas. The CDF reiterated that Uganda sees security in Africa as interconnected, and instability in one nation can have repercussions across the continent.

Expanding UPDF Mandate into Development Sectors

In addition to its security obligations, the UPDF has increasingly taken on non-military roles. The force has expanded into sectors such as infrastructure development, construction, and agricultural production. This diversification represents a broader shift in how the military is being utilized to support national development initiatives.

When questioned about this shift in the UPDF's mandate, General Muhoozi acknowledged the development but postponed a detailed explanation due to other commitments.

> "Now I have to rush for another engagement, but let us find time to talk about this another day," he said.

While the military’s role in infrastructure projects may seem unconventional, it aligns with Uganda’s strategy of leveraging the discipline and capacity of its forces to contribute to the nation’s economic and social progress. The UPDF’s involvement in the development sector is seen by many as part of its commitment to national resilience and self-reliance.

Conclusion

As the UPDF continues to play a crucial role both regionally and nationally, its evolving mandate signifies a broader understanding of security that goes beyond military operations to encompass development and economic stability. General Muhoozi’s comments highlight Uganda’s ongoing commitment to Pan-African solidarity and collective security, as well as the military's expanding contribution to Uganda’s development efforts.

Further discussions on the UPDF’s role in national development are anticipated as the force adapts to the changing landscape of both security and development in Uganda and Africa as a whole.