The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) contingent serving under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia marked Eid al-Fitr with Somali communities in Mogadishu, underscoring growing civil-military cooperation and improved security.
Speaking at Sector One Headquarters, Hadji Ibrahima Diene, the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, commended the Ugandan contingent and other AUSSOM forces for maintaining peace and stability throughout the holy month of Ramadan.
“The peace and stability enjoyed during Ramadan did not come by chance. It was made possible by the sacrifice, commitment and professionalism of our forces on the ground,” he said.
Diene urged the troops to remain professional, disciplined, and focused as they continue supporting Somalia’s journey toward lasting peace while respecting the culture and traditions of its people.
Uganda’s Deputy Ambassador to Somalia, Nathan Mugisha, also praised the contingent, noting that it was the first time since 2007 that Ramadan had passed without an Al-Shabaab attack in Mogadishu.
The AUSSOM Force Commander, Sam Kavuma, congratulated the Muslim faithful upon completing Ramadan and called on troops to sustain vigilance, operational tempo, and coordination in both defensive and offensive operations.
“We must maintain our vigilance, strengthen coordination and keep up the operational tempo so that Al-Shabaab is denied any chance to reorganise and threaten the gains made so far,” he said.
The Ugandan Contingent Commander, Jackson Kayanja, thanked the Muslim faithful for their devotion and commended the Somali community for its continued solidarity and support toward the UPDF.
Representing the Somali community, Halima Ahmed Asseir expressed gratitude to Yoweri Museveni for deploying Ugandan troops to support Somalia’s peace and security, noting that Somalis would not forget Uganda’s role in restoring stability and providing humanitarian assistance.
In a related development, UPDF Battle Group 46 held a separate Eid dinner with the Muslim community in Aribiska, Mogadishu, further highlighting community engagement efforts at the end of Ramadan.
Battle Group 46 Commander Saul Nabimanya commended the unity and cooperation of Somali communities during Ramadan and praised the Somali National Army for continued joint operations with the UPDF against Al-Shabaab.
Muhammad Abdu Rasid BK lauded the resilience of the Muslim community and highlighted the strong partnership between the UPDF, the Somali National Army, and local residents.
The head of the Muslim community in Aribiska, Umar Wasika, thanked the UPDF leadership for its sustained support, compassion, and engagement throughout Ramadan.
The celebrations were attended by Sector One Deputy Commander Francis Aragamoi Obita, Administrative Officer Hamza Kassajja, UNGU XII Commander Nathan Akankunda, alongside senior and junior officers, partners, Somali National Army personnel, community elders, and members of the Somali community.
