EAC forces begin command exercise to boost regional security cooperation

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The 14th East African Community (EAC) Armed Forces Command Post Exercise (CPX), codenamed “Ushirikiano Imara 26, has officially opened.

The event that kicked off on May 11, 2026, at the Humanitarian Peace Support School in Embakasi, Nairobi, Kenya, marks another milestone in strengthening regional peace, security and military co-operation among EAC partner states.

The three-week exercise, being held under the theme “Enhancing Regional Cooperation and Readiness for Peace, Security, and Resilience,” brings together armed forces and security stakeholders from across the region to reinforce collective security mechanisms and enhance operational readiness in responding to emerging and evolving security challenges.

Participating countries include Rwanda, Kenya, Burundi, Uganda, and Tanzania, while Somalia is participating as an observer state. The exercise has brought together 342 participants drawn from military, Police, civilian components, and other relevant institutions involved in regional peace and security efforts.

Uganda sends over 60

Uganda, on May 7, 2026, flagged off a 69-personnel contingent drawn from the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), Uganda Police Force, Uganda Prisons Service, and civilian components to participate in the exercise.

The flag-off ceremony, according to a Uganda army statement released on May 7, was officiated by the Commandant of the Senior Command and Staff College, Kimaka, Brig. Gen. Micheal Kabango, who described the exercise as a significant milestone in the ongoing integration efforts within the East African Community.

“This exercise you are going for is a testimony of the milestone in the integration of the East African federation. It will create a platform for East African forces to work together and address contemporary security challenges,” Brig. Gen. Kabango said.

Brig. Gen. Michael Kabango, Commandant SCSC Kimaka flags off Uganda Contingent for 14th EAC USHIRIKIANO IMARA exercise. (Courtesy)

He urged the contingent to uphold discipline and professionalism while in Kenya, noting that they are ambassadors of Uganda.

“Carry our flag high, make it shine, and represent our country with honour and integrity.”

The Commander Headquarter Uganda Rapid Deployment Capability (URDC), Brig. Gen. Ernest Nuwagaba, who is heading the contingent, said the team comprises military, police, and civilian actors.

He added that the composition will enhance synergy among East African partner states in addressing shared security challenges.

“This multi-dimensional team will strengthen coordination among states and inter-agency actors working together in a unified mission environment,” Brig Gen Nuwagaba said.

The head of the Police component, Senior Superintendent of Police Denis Ochama, said the Police will play their mandated role within the exercise framework, contributing to joint operational planning and response.

The Command Post Exercise comes at a critical time as the region continues to face complex security threats, including terrorism, transnational organised crime, cyber threats, humanitarian emergencies, and other emerging risks that demand coordinated regional responses.

Through joint planning, simulation-based operations, and strategic coordination, participating forces are expected to test and strengthen command-and-control systems, harmonise operational doctrines, and improve interoperability among EAC Partner States.

On behalf of the civilian component, Senior Immigration Officer Joseph Humphrey Wejuli said the civilian element is headed by the deputy head of mission and includes subject matter experts from immigration, correctional services, and humanitarian organisations, among others.

He added that the civilian team will provide mission support and advisory services to the head of mission throughout the exercise.

The Ushirikiano Imara 26 exercise will be conducted in line with the EAC Protocol on Co-operation in Defence Affairs. It is designed to enhance the capabilities of EAC partner states’ armed forces, police, civilian agencies, and other stakeholders in jointly responding to complex and evolving security challenges.