UPDF Hands Over Five Congolese Soldiers to FARDC Authorities
Kasindi, North Kivu – 17 November 2025
The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Force (UPDF), in collaboration with the Regional Immigration Office in Mbarara, has handed over five Congolese soldiers to the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC). The handover took place at Kasindi, Lhubiriha, along the Uganda–DRC Mpwondwe border.
The soldiers—Sergeant Kabangu Nsingi Jeancy (33), Corporal Bloende Botelu Enoch (35), Private Nkonyi Ngumu Mbuya (26), Private Musungu Malu Beni (22), and Private Bakomba Mupepe Exauce (20)—fled the city of Goma in Eastern DRC following intensified fighting and crossed into Uganda. Security personnel intercepted them in the Mukongolo area before transferring them to Buhoma Police for screening.
Maj. Kiconco Tabaro of the UPDF 2nd Infantry Division Public Information confirmed that the soldiers had been hosted by Uganda since July 2025 in line with International Humanitarian Law and regional norms governing the treatment of foreign military personnel. “All five soldiers remained in good health, did not seek asylum, and voluntarily chose to return home,” he said.
During the handover ceremony, Maj Gen Stephen Mugerwa, Commander of the UPDF Mountain Division, reaffirmed the longstanding cooperation between Uganda and the DRC. “UPDF and FARDC continue to work closely as reliable partners in maintaining peace and stability across the region,” he said, emphasizing that the exercise reflects Uganda’s Pan-African spirit and commitment to regional solidarity.
On behalf of the DRC government, H.E Maj Gen Everiste Somo Kakule, Military Governor of North Kivu, praised the UPDF for the humane treatment accorded to the soldiers and highlighted the strong relations between the two armies.
The handover ceremony was attended by Brig Gen Mugisa Muleka Joseph, FARDC Sector Commander for the Northern Frontier, alongside immigration officers from both Uganda and the DRC.
Maj. Kiconco Tabaro noted that all necessary legal and administrative procedures were followed to ensure a safe and orderly repatriation of the soldiers.
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