UPDF awarded for commendable job in Somalia

UPDF battle group 22 which has been serving under AMISOM and commanded by Col Bernard Tuhame, has been awarded medals of honour by African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM).

The troops recently completed their tour of duty in Somalia and a ceremony was officially organised by the Ugandan Contingent at their Headquarters in Mogadishu to congratulate them.

Officers and men were decorated with medals of honour in appreciation by the Deputy Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission Hon Simon Mulongo.

In his remarks,the Ugandan contingent Commander Brig Kayanja Muhanga applauded the team for the job well done to maintain peace in Somalia by protecting the main supply routes, protection of civilians and neutralizing Al-Shabaab militants amidst challenges.

The Deputy Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (SRCC) Hon Simon Mulongo in his remarks appreciated and congratulated the outgoing group for their life sacrifice towards the development of the Somali people.

The function was attended among others; by Uganda's Deputy Ambassador to Somalia Maj Gen. Nathan Mugisha, the Deputy Force Commander Maj Gen. Salvatore Harushimana and the AMISOM Chief of staff Brig Ayub Matiri.

Uganda is the largest troop contributing country to the African Mission in Somalia.

This year marks ten years since UPDF first landed in Mogadishu is 2007 and has been instrumental in maintaining the government and protection of key installations from Al Shabaab militants who are believed to have affiliations with Al Qaeda terrorists.