Col. David Byaruhanga, the Commander of the 409 Brigade at Bondo Barracks in Arua District, has passed away. The 3rd Division Commander, Brig. Gen. Wilberforce Sserunkuma, confirmed his death.
Although details surrounding his demise remain scarce, reports indicate that Col. Byaruhanga died on Friday after sustaining severe injuries from a gunshot inflicted by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on Wednesday.
According to a soldier who helped evacuate Col. Byaruhanga, the commander sustained injuries to his head, chest, legs, and upper thigh. Despite receiving medical treatment at Nakasero Hospital, he succumbed to his injuries.
In a related statement, Chris Magezi, the Acting UPDF Spokesperson, confirmed that the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) was attacked by the Cooperative for Development of Congo (CODECO) militia in the DRC on Wednesday and Thursday. The clashes took place in the Fataki region, Eastern DRC.
Magezi stated that the UPDF successfully repelled the attacks, killing 242 CODECO militants in the process. The two-day battle saw intense fighting, with the militias launching early morning raids on the UPDF blocking forces.
- On Wednesday, 31 CODECO militia members were killed.
- On Thursday, 211 additional militants died in the conflict.
Sadly, the UPDF lost one soldier, with four others wounded in the confrontation.
Col. Byaruhanga, who was widely known as Apa Lobokli in Karamoja, had served in the 405 Brigade in Kotido District before his reassignment to West Nile in December 2024. His contributions to peace and stability in Northern Karamoja have left a lasting legacy.
Numerous leaders and residents from Karamoja have eulogized the fallen commander, recognizing him for his instrumental role in promoting peace in the region.
Rosemary Igira, a peace activist in Karamoja, shared fond memories of Col. Byaruhanga, recalling his dedication to peace and his humility. “I remember him as a peace ambassador and peacemaker for Karamoja, a very strong and hardworking commander who was always accessible to everyone,” she said.
Igira also highlighted Col. Byaruhanga’s approach to leadership, noting that he valued teamwork, believed in consultation, and worked tirelessly to ensure harmony and peaceful coexistence among the Karimojong people and neighboring communities.
“I consider him a game changer for Karamoja, especially after those who preceded him struggled in their efforts,” she added.
Col. Byaruhanga’s deep faith and involvement in religious activities were also recalled. Igira noted his early presence at church services, as well as his participation in the preparation for the Paimol Martyrs celebration in October, where he ensured that foot pilgrims from Kotido Diocese were safely transported back after the celebration. “The Catholic Church will surely miss him,” she concluded.
