For the fifth time, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), working with its partners, captured, rescued, rehabilitated and reintegrated former rebels and captives of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF). This time, 41 individuals previously held up in the jungles of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) were brought back and reunited with their families.
The group included 33 Ugandans, 6 Congolese, and 2 Tanzanians. Originally, they were 41 people, but two women gave birth, with one of whom had twins during the rehabilitation period, bringing the total to 44.
For the past three months, they have been staying at Bridgeway Foundation, a rehabilitation centre where they received not just food and shelter, but also counselling, spiritual support, and vocational training in skills such as mechanics, weaving, carpentry, and baking.
The reunion ceremony was held at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MODVA) headquarters in Mbuya, Kampala on Friday, May 2. Speaking at the event, Mr Dennis Nkwasibwe from the Amnesty Commission reminded the group to respect the law.
“We expect you to behave well when you return to your communities. Do not break the law, if you do, it will take its course,” he warned.
The Amnesty Commission, which enforces the Amnesty Act of 2000, works to promote peace and reconciliation in Uganda.
As part of the reintegration event, the group held a small exhibition to showcase what they learned during their rehabilitation. They displayed handwoven mats, wooden crafts, paintings, bitengye clothing, homemade Vaseline, liquid soap, and shoes. These were more than just items, they represented hope, strength, and a fresh start in life.
One of the beneficiaries, Ms Asimau Muhammad, a former ADF combatant, praised the Mbuya Centre for Community Organisation and Bridge Way Foundation for offering them skills and support.
“We have learned sewing, painting, mechanics, and baking. We also got medical help, counselling, and spiritual guidance,” she said.
“I thank the Ugandan government and UPDF for helping restore peace in the DRC. You have shown us kindness and given us a second chance,” she added.
At the end of the ceremony, each person received a certificate of freedom and forgiveness.
“This certificate is a sign of your new beginning,” said Mr Nathan Twine, Principal Legal Officer at the Amnesty Commission. “Go back as ambassadors of peace and avoid returning to the past,” he added.
This group is the fifth batch of ex-ADF rebels and captives to complete a 3-month rehabilitation programme at the Mbuya Centre.
Bridge Way Foundation will continue to support them for at least a year after they rejoin their communities.
