By Henry Mukasa

OVER 450 United States military officers will camp in the country next month to conduct joint military drills for Uganda and the four other East African countries in Kitgum district.

The three-week military exercise codenamed “Natural Fire 10”, will include disaster management drills.

US embassy public affairs officials told journalists at a luncheon at Fang-Fang Hotel in Kampala yesterday that the operation is a routine training exercise for EAC partner states. Army representatives from Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi and Uganda will participate in the exercise.

“US personnel will only remain in Uganda for the duration of the exercise. Upon completion, they will return to their home stations,” John Dunne, the deputy public affairs officer, said.

Dunne said the 450 US military officers are in Uganda at the invitation of the Ugandan government and the EAC partner states.

“Working together, all parties will learn from each other to increase regional capabilities to respond to complex humanitarian emergencies,” Dunne said.

He noted that increased cooperation between the US and African partners would enhance mutual understanding, stability and security on the continent.

He said the US was committed to long-term capacity-building in Africa to prevent or mitigate the effects of conflict.

The armies will also offer dental and medical services in health centres in Kitgum.