Kampala, Uganda – The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Algerian People’s National Armed Forces have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening military cooperation during a special dinner hosted at Ndere Cultural Centre in Kampala.
The dinner, held on Saturday March 1, 2025, was in honor of a delegation from the Algerian High War College, which had spent a week in Uganda on a military study tour.
The delegation consisted of five college staff and 14 participants drawn from various military backgrounds, 11 Algerians and three others from France, Palestine, and Uganda.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Maj. Gen. Felix Kulayigye, the Director of Defence Public Information, underscored the strong historical ties between Uganda and Algeria.
He described Algeria as a “big brother” to Uganda, emphasizing that its revolutionary history and struggle for independence remain an inspiration to the UPDF.
“Uganda and Algeria share a long-standing Pan-African vision, and our collaboration in military affairs is a testament to that bond,” said Maj. Gen. Kulayigye. “We look forward to more engagements and encourage you to return to Uganda—not just for official duty, but also as tourists.”
Brig. Gen. Rabah Benhamouda, representing the Algerian delegation, expressed deep appreciation for Uganda’s warm hospitality and commended President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for his leadership in promoting Pan-African cooperation.
He also praised Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba for his efforts in strengthening Uganda-Algeria military relations.
“We are grateful for the reception and knowledge exchange we have had in Uganda,” Brig. Gen. Benhamouda remarked. “This visit has been productive, and we shall never forget the experience. Next time, we are coming back as tourists to explore more of this beautiful country.”
The UPDF and Algerian military have maintained strong relations over the years, engaging in military training, intelligence sharing, and security collaborations.
The Algerian delegation’s visit to Uganda focused on strategic defence discussions, military capacity building, and mutual learning on security operations.
The event was attended by several senior military and security officials from Uganda, including: Inspector General of Police Abbas Byakagaba, Commissioner General of Prisons Dr. Johnson Byabashaija, Brig. Gen. James Kinalwa – Joint Staff Human Resource Management, Brig. Gen. Abdul Rugumayo – Deputy Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security, Brig. Gen. Paul Namawa – Chief of Staff Special Forces Command, Ambassador Joseph Ocwet – Director General of External Security Organization.
With Uganda and Algeria reaffirming their commitment to deeper military cooperation, both nations are expected to expand their defence relations through joint training programs, exchange visits, and increased collaboration on regional security matters.
The UPDF views Algeria as a strategic partner in Africa, with both militaries keen on advancing peace, security, and stability on the continent. This latest engagement is seen as a step toward strengthening those ties further.
