The Kenyan High Commissioner to Uganda, His Excellency Joash Maangi, today visited the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) of Uganda, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, at the SFC Headquarters in Entebbe.
Ambassador Maangi, who was accompanied by Kenya’s Defence Attaché to Uganda, Colonel Patrick Kaduda, along with other senior officials from the Kenyan High Commission, held a productive meeting with General Kainerugaba. Also in attendance were Brigadier General Paul Namawa, the Special Forces Command Chief of Staff, and Colonel Christopher Muwumba, the CDF’s Military Assistant.
During the meeting, Ambassador Maangi conveyed his appreciation to General Kainerugaba for the opportunity to engage and discuss matters of mutual interest. This visit follows a recent incident in which a Kenyan newspaper, The Standard, published an article that was deemed disrespectful towards General Kainerugaba and his office.
Ambassador Maangi clarified that the government of Kenya had no involvement in the publication of the article and personally extended an apology on behalf of Kenya. In addition, the newspaper issued its own public apology, both in print and on social media, recognizing General Kainerugaba’s distinguished service and military accomplishments.
In response, General Kainerugaba expressed that no issue, however significant, should tarnish the long-standing relationship between Uganda and Kenya. He emphasized the importance of maintaining mutual respect and dignity toward leadership from both countries to ensure the preservation of strong bilateral ties.
The meeting culminated with a gift exchange. Ambassador Maangi presented traditional Kenyan attire and a lion sculpture, which were sent by Kenya’s Chief of Defence Forces, General Charles Kahiriri. In return, General Kainerugaba gifted the Kenyan delegation with a copy of the President’s autobiography, a book showcasing Uganda’s tourist destinations, and a selection of Ugandan coffee.