Lions Led By Donkeys Podcast Episode 397 - The Kagera War: Part 3
Jan 18, 2026
The Ugandan military faces self-inflicted struggles while a mysterious contractor thwarts Tanzanian efforts. Exploring bizarre assassination plots and chaotic propaganda, the hosts dive into the murky waters of international intervention and local politics. Impressive battlefield tactics emerge alongside logistical nightmares, leading to unexpected breakthroughs and costly losses. As the tides turn in this convoluted conflict, the narrative unfolds with suspense and dark humor, highlighting the absurdities that war often brings.
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Ugandan Exiles Formed Fractured Resistance
- Milton Obote and many of his loyalists fled to Tanzania and set up exile factions that later aided the Tanzanian war effort.
- These exiles included disparate groups like Fronassa and Kikosi Malum, who trained, plotted, and sometimes bickered violently among themselves.
Absurd Assassination Plot Fizzled
- Robert Saramaga, an exile playwright, tried to hire Israeli Colonel Baruch Barlev to kill Idi Amin but couldn't pay his fee.
- Barlev took a small advance, racked up a huge bar tab, and then ghosted Saramaga, leaving the plot farcical.
Psychology Beat Numbers At Mutukula
- A small, well-led Tanzanian detachment stopped a much larger Ugandan advance by using artillery and mortar intimidation.
- Poor Ugandan coordination and morale amplified the psychological effect of light Tanzanian resistance.