Parliament has approved a motion authorising the deployment of the first contingent of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) to the Gaza Strip as part of an International Stabilisation Force.
The motion, tabled by the Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka, was presented under Section 38 of the UPDF Act, seeking Parliament’s approval for President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni to deploy Ugandan troops outside the country following an invitation from the United States government.
Government said the deployment follows the adoption of a United Nations Security Council resolution establishing an international framework to support peace, humanitarian assistance and the reconstruction of Gaza after the Israel–Palestine conflict.
According to the motion, Uganda’s participation builds on its long-standing contribution to international peacekeeping missions, including operations in Somalia, South Sudan and the Central African Republic.
The UPDF contingent is expected to help implement the ceasefire, protect civilians, monitor security arrangements and support efforts aimed at restoring lasting peace and stability in the Gaza Strip. The troops will operate under international humanitarian law, guided by defined rules of engagement while maintaining neutrality throughout the mission.
During the debate, the Leader of the Opposition, Hon. John Baptist Nambeshe, said he supports the deployment but urged government to first present a comprehensive report detailing the performance, achievements and lessons learned from Uganda’s previous peacekeeping missions.
Meanwhile, the Shadow Minister for Defence, Hon. Joseph Ssewungu, criticized the process, describing the motion as an ambush. He argued that Members of Parliament needed more time to scrutinize the proposal before making a decision.
The approval clears the way for Uganda to contribute troops to the International Stabilization Force as part of the global effort to restore security and support post-conflict recovery in Gaza.
By Francis Lubega
6th Aug 2026