The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Force, working with the Regional Immigration Office in Mbarara, has handed over five (05) Congolese soldiers to the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC). The handover took place at Kasindi, Lhubiriha at Uganda – DRC Mpwondwe border.
According to Uganda’s UPDF second division spokesperson Maj. Kiconco Tabaro, the soldiers included: 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.
Tabaro told the press that they fled the city of Goma in Eastern DRC following intensified fighting and later crossed toward the Ugandan border. Security personnel intercepted them in the Mukongolo area before transferring them to Buhoma Police for screening.
UPDF has hosted the group since July 2025 in accordance with International Humanitarian Law, including the principle of humane treatment for foreign military personnel who enter another state, and regional norms that guide such situations. All five remained in good health, did not apply for asylum and voluntarily chose to return home.
During the handover, the Commander of the UPDF Mountain Division, Maj Gen Stephen Mugerwa, reaffirmed the strong and steady cooperation between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
“UPDF and FARDC continue to work closely as reliable partners in maintaining peace and stability across the region,” he said.
Maj Gen Mugegwa added that the exercise reflects Uganda’s Pan-African spirit and commitment to regional solidarity, consistent with cooperation frameworks under the East African Community and wider continental arrangements.
All required legal and administrative steps were completed to ensure the soldiers were repatriated safely and in an orderly manner.
On behalf of DRC government, H.E Maj Gen Everiste Somo Kakule, the Military Governor for North Kivu, applauded UPDF leadership for the care accorded to FARDC soldiers while in Uganda and appreciated the cordial relations between FARDC and UPDF.
Those present included Brig Gen Mugisa Muleka Joseph, FARDC Sector commander Northern frontier, Immigration Officers from Uganda and DRC among others.
