Gen Rudzani Maphwanya, South African Chief of National Defence Force, emphasised security diplomacy as the foundation for all diplomatic efforts, stating that political and business diplomacy can thrive only if security diplomacy is in place. He made the remarks at a dinner hosted by his Ugandan counterpart, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, at Serena Kigo.
Gen Maphwanya thanked his host for the warm African hospitality extended to him and his delegation, characterised by Ndere troupe and Janzi band performances, along with local cuisine.
Gen Maphwanya applauded the presence of Police and Prisons’ leaders at the dinner, highlighting their crucial supporting role in ensuring national security.
Gen Kainerugaba reflected on his over-a-decade-long friendship with Gen Maphwanya, citing Gen Edward Katumba Wamala’s role in their initial meeting in 2010.
Speaking at the dinner, the South African military chief thanked President Museveni for treating him and his colleagues with kindness during their Ugandan stay in the past years, saying the Ugandan leader took them under his wings as his own children.
The Ugandan CDF praised Gen Maphwanya as key to UPDF-SANDF military relations.
The Wednesday evening dinner followed an earlier meeting at the Special Forces Command headquarters, where the two leaders discussed military cooperation.
Senior officials from UPDF, Uganda Police, and Prisons attended the dinner.
