Share this article

The Head of British Defence Staff in East Africa, Brig Gen Olly Bryant, has commended the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) for their efforts in maintaining peace and stability in Somalia a courtesy visit at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MODVA) Headquarters in Mbuya on 8^th June 2024

Brig Gen Olly Bryant, Head of British Defence Staff in East Africa, has praised the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) for their efforts to keep Somalia peaceful and stable during a courtesy visit to the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MODVA) Headquarters in Mbuya. Bryant was heading a delegation from the British military at the time.

Bryant was leading a delegation from the British military; he made these remarks during a courtesy visit at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MODVA) Headquarters in Mbuya.

He further pledged to continue supporting the UPDF, particularly in advanced training that will enhance the resilience and capabilities of UPDF soldiers.

The Chief of Joint Staff, Maj Gen Jack Bakasumba, who received the British team, praised the British government for its ongoing support to Uganda, particularly in training the UPDF.

Maj Gen Bakasumba said that the training has enhanced the capabilities and resilience of UPDF soldiers, contributing significantly to maintaining peace and stability in Somalia.

He emphasized the need to build a patriotic and robust force in Somalia to defend the country.

Consequently, Major General Bakasumba reaffirmed the UPDF’s commitment to strengthening the existing good relationship with the British military and expressed readiness to continue collaborating on various fronts.

The meeting was attended by other notable figures, including Joint Staff Training and Doctrine Brigadier General Alex Olupot, UK Defence Attaché to Uganda Lieutenant Colonel Toby Barrington Barnes, and several other senior UPDF officers, reflecting the significance and breadth of the discussions held during the courtesy visit.