Uganda Signals Troop Withdrawal from Eastern DRC Amidst Growing Tensions
Uganda is preparing to withdraw a contingent of its forces stationed in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a move stemming from escalating friction between Ugandan troops and local authorities in the region. General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Chief of Defence Forces in the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF), announced the readiness to pull back from all positions spanning Lubero to Mahagi in Eastern DRC, emphasizing that this action would be coordinated with the DRC government.
The primary catalyst for this impending withdrawal appears to be the actions of Lieutenant General Johnny Luboya Nkashama, the military governor of Ituri province. General Kainerugaba explicitly stated that the UPDF would withdraw from Lubero within days if Governor Nkashama is not replaced.
The core of the dispute lies in Lieutenant General Nkashama’s alleged obstruction of Ugandan troops’ access to certain areas crucial for their ongoing hunt for the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebels. Uganda views these restrictions as deliberate attempts to undermine their counter-terrorism operations. Recent reports indicate that Lt. Gen. Nkashama prevented the UPDF from utilizing the Anzida and Karombo border posts, facilities deemed vital for pursuing remnants of the ADF.
Further complicating matters, it is understood that President Felix Tshisekedi of the DRC recently declined a request from Uganda for Governor Nkashama’s removal. Despite these challenges, General Kainerugaba reiterated that the bilateral relationship between Uganda and the DRC remains robust.
The Joint Operation Against ADF
The presence of Ugandan troops in eastern DRC is part of a joint military offensive launched in November 2021. This collaborative effort between the UPDF and the Congolese army, known as the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC), was initiated with the objective of dismantling ADF terrorist strongholds in the volatile eastern regions. The operation commenced with air and artillery strikes, which were subsequently followed by ground troop deployments.
This concerted military action has reportedly inflicted significant damage on the ADF. Numerous rebel camps have been destroyed, senior commanders and fighters have been neutralized or captured, and a number of abducted civilians have been successfully rescued.
ADF Adaptability and Shifting Tactics
However, the persistent pressure from the UPDF has compelled the ADF to adapt its strategies and relocate. While traditionally concentrated in the Beni territory of North Kivu province, the ADF has, since 2021, significantly expanded its operational footprint northward into Ituri province.
Furthermore, the group, which has been designated as a terrorist organization, has also strategically shifted its focus towards more remote and densely forested areas further west, moving away from the Ugandan border to evade direct confrontation with military forces. This strategic repositioning aims to reduce their vulnerability to conventional military engagements.
The ADF is also reportedly increasingly employing hit-and-run tactics. In some instances, they are exploiting the prevailing chaos and instability in the eastern DRC to extend their influence deeper into the central and northern parts of the region. This dynamic presents ongoing challenges for counter-insurgency efforts, requiring continuous adaptation and intelligence gathering to effectively counter the group’s evolving modus operandi.
