KAMPALA, Uganda - The Director of Religious Affairs for Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa, and an imam from the Islamic Center of Chester, Pa., met with members of the Ugandan People’s Defense Forces Aug. 24.

In the meeting, held at the Ministry of Defense headquarters, they discussed the importance of a military chaplaincy, as well as the possible re-establishment of chaplains in the Uganda People’s Defense Forces.

“Taking care of the spiritual, social and psychological aspects of a troop before, during and after they return from combat situations is part of a military chaplain’s job, in addition to holding services on post,” said Rabbi (U.S. Navy Capt.) Jon Cutler, CJTF-HOA. “I have met with muftis, imams, patriarchs and pastors who have all expressed great concern about the well-being of the soldiers in the UPDF.”

The UPDF has been without a military chaplaincy program since 1986.

With the absence of military chaplains, UPDF Political Commissioner Col. Moses Diba Sentongo spoke of different ways UPDF soldiers receive therapy and practice religion outside the barracks.

“We are affected by combat stress, family separation and spiritual needs. There are mosques and churches close to our barracks, and we have separate counseling for family, post-injury and welfare needs, even with the absence of chaplains,” he said.
Lt. Col. Chris Bagamba, the UPDF liaison officer at Camp Lemonnier, spoke about the great benefits the chaplains provide.

“I admire the degree of morality, openness and friendliness that chaplains bring to the missions. I have seen their work during my time [at Camp Lemonnier] and appreciate their accommodation of all the faith backgrounds, no matter their own beliefs,” said Bagamba.

“Everything is run by chain of command, even the chaplains. The chapel is a commander’s program, and is there to provide, facilitate and advise the commander in moral and spiritual matters,” added Cutler.

In the end, Sentongo was interested in learning more.

“I would like to see official communication and presentation about a chaplaincy here in Uganda, and how CJTF-HOA and U.S. Africa Command can help us train, build and support one again,” he said.

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