CDF Muhoozi, Malian counterpart sign military co-operation agreement

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In a move to bolster regional security, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda's Chief of Defence Forces, and his Malian counterpart, Chief of General Staff, Maj Gen Oumar Diarra, have signed a military co-operation agreement.

This development demonstrates the growing partnership between Uganda and Mali, aimed at combating common security threats and promoting stability between the two African nations.

Malian Chief of General Staff, Maj Gen Oumar Diarra inspecting a guard of honor. (Courtesy)

The agreement signing follows a meeting between Gen Kainerugaba and Maj Gen Diarra in June this year at the Special Forces Command headquarters in Entebbe.

In June, Gen Diarra and his delegation were in Uganda to attend the pass-out ceremony of cadet officers at Kaweweta. 19 Malian officers were part of the cohort.

During the discussions at the SFC headquarters, the two defence chiefs acknowledged the importance of strengthening military-to-military cooperation and enhancing the existing memoranda of understanding between their countries.

Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda's Chief of Defence Forces. (Courtesy)

Malian Chief of General Staff, Maj Gen Oumar Diarra. (Courtesy)

Under the agreement, Uganda and Mali will collaborate on various defence initiatives, including joint training exercises, intelligence sharing, and capacity building among other areas.

This cooperation is expected to boost the capabilities of both nations in addressing security challenges such as terrorism, insurgency, and transnational organized crime.

Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda's Chief of Defence Forces, and his Malian counterpart, Chief of General Staff, Maj Gen Oumar Diarra. (Courtesy)

Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda's Chief of Defence Forces, and his Malian counterpart, Chief of General Staff, Maj Gen Oumar Diarra. (Courtesy)

Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda's Chief of Defence Forces, and his Malian counterpart, Chief of General Staff, Maj Gen Oumar Diarra. (Courtesy)

Gen Kainerugaba hailed the agreement, emphasizing the significance of regional cooperation in ensuring peace and stability.

Maj Gen Diarra echoed similar sentiments, expressing his gratitude to Gen Kainerugaba for hosting him and reaffirming Mali's commitment to the partnership.

Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda's Chief of Defence Forces, and his Malian counterpart, Chief of General Staff, Maj Gen Oumar Diarra shaing hands after the agreement. (Courtesy)

The signing of the military co-operation agreement marks a significant milestone in Uganda's efforts to strengthen its defence ties with sister African countries.

CDF hosts Gen Diarra

Gen Kainerugaba later hosted his Malian counterpart, Maj Gen Oumar Diarra, and his delegation for dinner at Ndere Cultural Centre.

Mali's Maj Gen Oumar Diarra (White) arrives for the dinner. (Courtesy)

Maj Gen BD Mugisha, Commander of the Special Forces Command (SFC), represented Gen Kainerugaba at the event.

Speaking at the dinner, the SFC commander expressed gratitude to Gen Kainerugaba for entrusting him with the responsibility to represent him, and he extended his thanks to the guest for the visit.

(Courtesy)

Gen Oumar Diarra shared that both he and the delegation had high expectations for this visit, but they have been overwhelmed by the fact that their expectations have been exceeded.

The dinner followed the newly-signed military cooperation agreement between Uganda and Mali, aimed at bolstering regional security and stability.

Maj Gen Oumar Diarra (white). (Courtesy)

(Courtesy)

(Courtesy)

The agreement facilitates joint training exercises, intelligence sharing, and capacity building to combat common security threats.

The Malian military chief and his delegation were treated to a sumptuous meal and captivating cultural performances showcasing Uganda's rich diversity. The Ndere Troupe dancers performed traditional music and dances from various regions of Uganda.

Commenting about the performances, Gen Diarra noted that some of the dances are similar to those in West Africa, particularly within his own tribe, and he prayed for God's blessing upon the agreement he and the Ugandan CDF signed.

Maj Gen Oumar Diarra (white) at the dinner. (Courtesy)

Similar dinners have been hosted by Gen Kainerugaba for other military leaders, including his Rwandan counterpart, Gen Mubarak Muganga and Ethiopian Field Marshal, Berhanu Jula.

Several UPDF generals and senior officers were present at the dinner with the Malian military delegation.