Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, hosted a dinner at Ndere Cultural Centre in honour of his Malian counterpart, Chief of General Staff Major General Oumar Diarra, and his delegation.
Maj Gen BD Mugisha, Commander of the Special Forces Command (SFC), represented Gen Kainerugaba at the event.
Speaking at the dinner, the SFC commander expressed gratitude to Gen Kainerugaba for entrusting him with the responsibility to represent him, and he extended his thanks to the guest for the visit.
General Oumar Diarra shared that both he and the delegation had high expectations for this visit, but they have been overwhelmed by the fact that their expectations have been exceeded.
The dinner followed the newly-signed military cooperation agreement between Uganda and Mali, aimed at bolstering regional security and stability.
The agreement facilitates joint training exercises, intelligence sharing, and capacity building to combat common security threats.
The Malian military chief and his delegation were treated to a sumptuous meal and captivating cultural performances showcasing Uganda’s rich diversity. The Ndere Troupe dancers performed traditional music and dances from various regions of Uganda.
Commenting on the performances, the Malian General noted that some of the dances are similar to those in West Africa, particularly within his own tribe, and he prayed for God’s blessing upon the agreement he and the Ugandan CDF signed.
Similar dinners have been hosted by Gen Kainerugaba for other military leaders, including his Rwandan counterpart, Gen Mubarak Muganga, and Ethiopian Field Marshal Berhanu Jula.
Several UPDF Generals and senior officers were present at the dinner with the Malian military delegation.
