The Uganda Peoples' Defence Forces (UPDF) has carried out a routine rotation of troops serving under Operation Shujaa in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The rotation involved the 2nd Mountain Battalion, the 83rd Battalion, and the Makindye Battalion, according to military sources.
Troop rotation is a standard practice in military operations, aimed at allowing soldiers to rest and recover from the rigors of combat, as well as to reassign personnel to new duties. The outgoing troops have been deployed in Ituri and North Kivu provinces, where they have been engaged in operations against the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a militant group active in the region.
Leadership Oversight
Major General Stephen Mugerwa, the Joint Task Force Commander of Operation Shujaa and Commander of the Mountain Infantry Division, presided over the rotation exercise on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at the Mungamba Military Base in Ituri Province. During the event, he acknowledged the salute from field officers, underscoring the importance of the rotation in maintaining operational readiness.
The rotation comes as part of ongoing efforts to sustain pressure on the ADF and ensure the security of civilian populations in the region. The UPDF, in collaboration with Congolese forces, has been conducting operations under Operation Shujaa since 2021, with the aim of dismantling ADF strongholds and restoring stability in eastern DRC.
Military analysts note that regular rotations are crucial for maintaining troop morale and effectiveness, particularly in challenging environments such as the dense forests and rugged terrain of eastern DRC. The rotation also allows for the introduction of fresh troops who may bring new skills and perspectives to the mission.
While the UPDF has not disclosed the exact number of troops involved in the rotation, sources indicate that the process was conducted smoothly and without incident. The incoming troops are expected to continue operations against the ADF, which has been responsible for numerous attacks on civilians in both DRC and Uganda.
The rotation exercise highlights the UPDF's commitment to professionalizing its forces and ensuring that soldiers are given adequate rest and support. It also demonstrates the ongoing partnership between Uganda and DRC in addressing shared security challenges.
As Operation Shujaa continues, the focus remains on neutralizing the ADF threat and creating conditions for lasting peace in the region. The rotation of troops is a testament to the sustained effort required to achieve this goal.
