Force Commander EACRF hosts Contingent Commanders at Force Headquarters in Goma
Force Commander (FC) of the East African Community Regional Force (EACRF) Maj Gen Aphaxard Kiugu on Monday, 16 October 2023, hosted at Force Headquarters in Goma, Contingent Commanders of EACRF troops deployed in North Kivu.
The Commanders from the Burundi, Kenya, South Sudan and Uganda contingents updated the FC on the current security situation in their respective Areas of Responsibility. The FC was informed of the recent surge in Armed Groups’ activities that continue to threaten peace & stability efforts so far achieved. Further, the Commanders highlighted the dire humanitarian situation & the need for timely intervention in order to alleviate the suffering being experienced by IDPs owing to the limited aid reaching them.
The FC commended all troops for their commitment in executing their assigned tasks day and night stressing the need for enhanced Protection of Civilians whose lives and property remain threatened by the surge in Armed Groups clashes in the entire EACRF Joint Operation Area.
“When fighting between Armed Groups occur, it is innocent citizens who suffer the consequences because they get injured, displaced and at times are killed.”
He took note of the increased propaganda against EACRF & called on the commanders not to be distracted but to remain steadfast in implementing the EACRF mandate. He stressed the need for extra vigilance and ensuring troops are protected from possible or imminent threats.
The FC reminded the commanders to ensure strict adherence to the code of conduct and discipline of troops in line with existing instruments that guide EACRF Operations namely; the Status of Forces Agreement, Concept of Operations and the Rules of Engagement.
Present during the meeting were the Deputy Force Commanders Brig Gen Emmanuel Kaputa - Intelligence & Operations, Brig Gen Ndorarigonya Gregoir - Admin & Logistics, Brig Gen Michael Kibuye - Chief of Staff and Staff Officers from the FHQs and Contingents.