Kampala, Uganda | NOW THEN DIGITAL — CDF Gen. Wilson Mbadi met with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) at the Ministry of Defence in Kampala. The focus was on enhancing relations between UPDF and ICRC, operating in Uganda since 1971. Christoph Sutter, ICRC head, emphasized the value of the relationship, citing the strategic regional office location in Kampala.
The meeting aimed to seek UPDF advice on improving ICRC activities, fostering humanitarian law adherence, and ensuring a confidential dialogue with authorities. Sutter highlighted ICRC’s discreet approach and ongoing efforts in DRC, emphasizing collaboration with UPDF in detainee access, refugee management, and soon-to-be-finalized agreements.
Gen. Mbadi expressed satisfaction with UPDF-ICRC collaboration, stressing the importance of coordinated information flow in ongoing operations in Eastern DRC. He clarified Congo’s sovereignty, suggesting ICRC coordinate with local UPDF leadership for operational notifications. Mbadi praised improved conditions in Eastern Congo post-Operation Shujaa, emphasizing the need for prompt activity notifications in conflict zones.
On ADF radicalization, Mbadi expressed difficulty in dialogue due to unclear motives, advocating for their destruction. Regarding South African and SADC troops in DRC, he advised ICRC to prepare facilities for potential refugee influx. Mbadi assured adherence to UPDF Act and IHL in handling errant soldiers, distinguishing between misleaders and misled individuals.
He noted International Humanitarian Law’s inclusion in the school curriculum, urging continued ICRC-UPDF contact for accurate force positions. On POWs, Mbadi emphasized mutual respect, with DRC and Uganda coordinating handovers based on operational interests.
The CDF thanked ICRC for neutrality, urging adherence to the principles of impartiality and independence for sustained collaboration. He encouraged ongoing communication through the UPDF spokesperson for accurate force perspectives.
