Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, is in Beijing for a visit focused on deepening military cooperation between Uganda and China. He arrived on Tuesday and was welcomed at the airport by senior officers of the Chinese army, a gesture that reflected the importance of his trip.
General Muhoozi is not alone on this mission. He is traveling with a high-ranking team that includes Major General Dan Kakono, who leads the Artillery Division, and Major General Felix Busizoori, commander of the 4th Division. Together, the delegation has been meeting Chinese officials and touring key defence facilities.
On Wednesday, the group visited the China National Aero-Technology Import and Export Corporation (CATIC), a state-owned company that specializes in aircraft and defence technology. At the facility, General Muhoozi was shown modern aviation equipment and innovations by the company’s vice president. The tour offered him a clear look at China’s advances in military aviation, which could open new doors for cooperation with Uganda.
During his stay, General Muhoozi will also take part in a military conference that brings together chiefs of defence from other nations. He is expected to hold private discussions with his Chinese counterpart and attend bilateral meetings that focus on future defence collaboration.
Uganda and China have worked closely for decades, particularly in the areas of training, peace missions, and technical support. This visit continues that tradition. Since becoming CDF, General Muhoozi has placed strong emphasis on expanding Uganda’s global defence partnerships. He has previously visited Russia, Rwanda, Algeria, Mozambique, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, and he has hosted military leaders from countries such as France, the United Kingdom, and the United States in Kampala.
Security experts say that trips like this one are more than symbolic. They strengthen Uganda’s ability to access advanced technology, improve training opportunities, and build alliances that are important for stability in East Africa.
As the meetings in China continue, both countries are expected to explore new ways of working together, with focus areas including modern training programs, exchange of defence technology, and broader cooperation in military strategy. The visit marks another chapter in the long and steady relationship between Uganda and China, a partnership that has grown stronger since the mid-1980s.
