The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and the United States Army have strengthened their bilateral defence partnership through high-level engagements and joint activities.

The development was highlighted during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the US Army’s 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) to the UPDF Land Forces Headquarters in Bombo on Tuesday, April 1, 2026.

The US delegation was led by Brigadier General William D. Taylor, who met with senior UPDF officers, including the Commander of Land Forces, Lt Gen Kayanja Muhanga, and other top military officials.

Discussions focused on enhancing military-to-military cooperation, sharing best practices in training, leadership development, and joint operations.

Both sides expressed commitment to expanding collaboration in areas such as counter-terrorism, disaster response, and professional military education.

Lt Gen Muhanga welcomed the delegation and thanked the United States for its continued support to the UPDF, particularly in capacity building and equipment modernisation.

He described the partnership as mutually beneficial and vital for regional stability.

Brig Gen Taylor reaffirmed the US Army’s dedication to working closely with the UPDF, noting that the relationship has grown significantly over the years through joint exercises, training programmes, and information sharing.

The visit comes at a time when Uganda continues to play a key role in regional peace and security missions, including operations against the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) and contributions to African Union peacekeeping efforts.

The two armies have a long history of cooperation, with the US providing training and logistical support to Ugandan forces deployed in Somalia under the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS).