Ugandan troops on 30 March 2023 crossed into DRC at Bunagana (DRC/Uganda) Border Crossing Point in order to deploy in Bunagana, Kiwanja, and Mabenga within Rutshuru territory in North Kivu.
The deployment is in line with the newly aligned East Africa Community Regional Force (EACRF) multinational Sector in North Kivu marking a critical milestone and the final phase towards full deployment of the East Africa Community Regional Force (EACRF).
The force will oversee the sequenced and orderly withdrawal of M23 and open up the Rutshuru-Bunagana-Rutshuru-Kibumba-Goma Main Supply Route in order to enhance the free movement of people and goods, and further enhance the protection of civilians.
The Ugandan Contingent (UGACON) was ushered in by the EACRF Commander Maj Gen Jeff Nyagah, the Deputy Force Commander Brig Emmanuel Kaputa, and the Chief of Staff Brig Michael Kibuye.
The EACRF Commander and his delegation were upon arrival at the border crossing point hosted by the UPDF Chief of the Defence Forces Gen Wilson Mbadi, accompanied by the Land Forces Commander Lt Gen Kayanja Muhanga.
Subsequently, the Force Commander briefed the UPDF Chief of the Defence forces on the current security situation in the Joint Operation Area, progress on the ongoing peace efforts, and the future plans of the force.
The force command noted that, for the period under review, there has been general observance of ceasefire in theatre as a result of concerted efforts by both military and political tracks.
Gen Mbadi expressed confidence that his soldiers were well-trained and ready to take over the designated areas of Bunagana, Kiwanja/Rutshuru, and Mabenga.
“I am here to bid my soldiers farewell and to assure Congolese civilians, DRC, EAC, and the world that this Ugandan Contingent has prepared adequately and is up to the task that lies ahead of them,” he said.
On a similar note, Major General Nyagah said the deployment of UPDF was a significant milestone in the peace process reiterating that the deployment is in line with the re-posturing of EACRF troops in Masisi and Rutshuru territories, making the region a multinational sector as per the recommendation of the East African Community Chiefs of Defence Forces/Chiefs of Staff meeting held on February 9, 2023, in Nairobi.
The Kenyan and Burundian Contingents under EACRF have already deployed with the South Sudan Contingent expected soon to complete the deployment exercise as envisioned by the Heads of State, who approved the recommendations of the Chiefs of Defence Forces/Chiefs of Staff in the Addis Ababa mini-summit.
The full deployment and total withdrawal of M23 from the current areas they are occupying to the designated cantonment area will usher in the Disarmament, Demobilization, Community Recovery, and Stabilization Program (PDDRCS).
The troops from regional countries are in the area to help fight various rebel groups that have been terrorizing locals.
The ground includes M23.
The M23, which is waging its most sustained offensive since capturing swathes of territory in 2012-13, has been accused of flouting a ceasefire process and summarily executing civilians.
The unrest has spurred anti-Rwandan sentiment in Congo and local opposition to a U.N. peacekeeping mission.
