UPDF and FARDC Strengthen Security Cooperation After Lake Edward Incident

The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) on Wednesday held a crucial bilateral meeting in Kasindi Port, Beni, Eastern DRC, to improve security on Lake Edward. The meeting came in response to an incident on October 1, 2025, involving armed individuals robbing fishermen.

Upon approach, the team came under intense gunfire from attackers aboard a canoe. In response, the UPDF returned fire, but unfortunately, they lost one of their soldiers in the exchange.

The meeting was attended by top military leaders, including Maj Gen Stephen Mugerwa, the UPDF Mountain Division Commander, Col James Kasule, the Deputy Commander of the UPDF 2 Infantry Division, and Brig Gen Mugisa Muleka Joseph, the FARDC Sector Commander for the Northern Front – Kivu I.

Key discussions centered on enhancing coordination and security operations between the marine forces of both nations, with a focus on preventing similar incidents in the future. Maj Gen Mugerwa stressed the need for structured collaboration, suggesting the formation of a joint committee to manage ongoing coordination and regular engagements between the forces.

“We need marine commanders to meet regularly. A committee should be in place to resolve issues and strengthen our cooperation,” he said.

Brig Gen Mugisa affirmed the long-standing partnership between the two forces, noting the shared security challenges faced by both countries. “FARDC and UPDF have a permanent bond and will continue to cooperate because we face common challenges,” he added.

During the meeting, Maj Gen Mugerwa also handed over several weapons and ammunition to the FARDC, including five submachine guns, two light machine guns, 17 fully loaded SMG magazines, and two boxes of light machine gun ammunition. Additionally, it was confirmed that a boat and a 25-horsepower engine, involved in the incident, would be returned to the Congolese side within the week.

The two delegations agreed on key measures to enhance their cooperation, including joint patrols on Lake Edward, regular security and fisheries coordination meetings, and efforts to sensitize fishing communities along the lake’s shores about security matters.