Uganda established a new mountain warfare unit 42706162

Defence & Security News - Uganda
 
Uganda established a new mountain warfare unit
The Ugandan People’s Defence Force (UPDF) has established a new mountain warfare unit, according to a statement made by the country’s President, Yoweri Museveni. The new unit will carry out operations at the Kasese District, where the 5,000-metre high Mount Rwenzori is located.
     
Uganda established a new mountain warfare unit
A Ugandan special forces soldier during training (Photo: UPDF Special Forces)
     

President Yoweri Museveni mentioned that the new unit’s role will be to secure the mountain area, at the borders with the Democratic Republic of Congo, which has seen a rise in ethnic violence and civilian deaths in the recent months. A secure environment would eventually allow the tourism business to flourish again, further supporting the country’s economy.

The organization and training of the new unit was carried out by the French Army’s alpine troops. During his recent visit at the Kasese District, the Ugandan President thanked the French Government and the French envoy to the country, Ms Sophie Makame.

UPDF’s next plan is to build a strong basis for mountain warfare, through the creation of a mountain warfare school. Through that, the army will expand and consolidate its training infrastructure, thus creating a capable highly specialized force.