Ugandan and Malian defense officials signing the documents

Uganda, Mali sign military cooperation agreement

by · The Observer

Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has signed a military cooperation agreement with Malian CDF, Maj Gen Oumar Diarra, focusing on intelligence sharing and joint training initiatives.

Muhoozi noted that this partnership highlights the growing relationship between Uganda and Mali, which is aimed at tackling common security challenges and enhancing stability in both nations. The agreement was signed at the Special Forces Command (SFC) headquarters in Entebbe,

“There is a need to strengthen military-to-military cooperation and enhance the existing memoranda of understanding between our countries. Under the agreement, we shall collaborate on various defence initiatives, including joint training exercises, intelligence sharing, and capacity building among other areas,” Muhoozi said.

Diarra, who visited SFC headquarters earlier in June and attended the graduation ceremony of cadet officers at Kaweweta - including 19 Malian officers - emphasized that this cooperation would enhance both nations' ability to address security threats such as terrorism, insurgency, and organized transnational crime.

Both leaders emphasized that regional cooperation is essential to securing peace and stability. Mali has faced considerable security and political turbulence in recent years, which ultimately led to the military ousting President Aboubakar Keita. Keita was accused by citizens of failing to effectively address terrorist threats from groups such as al-Qaeda and ISIL, which had taken control of various regions and carried out bomb attacks.

Following the ousting, which occurred as locals protested Keita’s leadership, Mali has increasingly sought military partnerships to bolster its defense capabilities. This agreement with Uganda marks another step in Mali’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its military ties across Africa.

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