UPDF starts Forward Defensive Posture in Eastern DRC: Could this be another way to fund the M23

The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) have announced a new strategy called the Forward Defensive Posture in the North Kivu region of eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This decision is meant to address ongoing security threats from armed groups, especially the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF).

According to Acting Defence Spokesperson Maj Gen Felix Kulayigye, UPDF decided to take this approach due to the worsening security situation in the area. The recent fighting between the M23 Movement and the government forces of FARDC has escalated tensions, making it necessary for UPDF to strengthen its defensive operations until peace is restored.

What is a Forward Defensive Posture?

A forward defensive posture involves several active security measures. These include foot and motorized patrols, improved surveillance to detect dangers early, setting up ambushes, and being ready to take limited offensive action if necessary. The main goal is to prevent enemy forces from moving freely in the area and to protect civilians as UPDF claims

The ADF has been responsible for brutal attacks in North Kivu and Ituri provinces. Since June 2024, the group has killed over 650 civilians. In June alone, more than 200 people were murdered, mostly in Beni and Lubero. One of the deadliest incidents occurred in Cantine between June 3 and 12, where 150 people lost their lives.

These attacks have caused widespread fear and forced many communities to flee their homes, leaving them vulnerable.

UPDF has been working alongside FARDC to fight and weaken the ADF since launching Operation Shujaa in November 2021. The joint forces have made significant progress in reducing the group’s influence. UPDF continues to monitor the security situation closely and is committed to eliminating ADF fighters wherever they operate.

However, on the other hand, Uganda has been at the top of the list of alleged funders of the M23 rebels. This follows previous accusations by Rwandan President Kagame, who stated that the leaders of M23 came from Uganda, not Rwanda—sparking debate and controversy between the Ugandan spokesperson and their Rwandan counterpart. Many political analysts see this claim as an excuse for a larger geopolitical maneuver. This notion is further supported by Muhoozi's tweets, in which he praised the ethnically fueled rebel group M23, congratulating them for capturing Goma in his Twitter posts