Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Commander of Land Forces, Lieutenant General Kayanja Muhanga, has praised Ugandan troops deployed in Somalia for recent battlefield gains, while cautioning that the security situation remains volatile and demands sustained vigilance.
Lt Gen Muhanga made the remarks during an operational visit to troops serving under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), where he assessed combat readiness and operational effectiveness at Awdhegeele and Barrire Forward Operating Bases.
He commended the soldiers for their professionalism, discipline, and continued contribution to regional peace and stability.
“Your professionalism and discipline continue to stand out, and your efforts remain critical in supporting the stabilisation of Somalia and advancing the mission mandate,” he said.
The land forces commander emphasised teamwork and the spirit of Pan-Africanism, reaffirming Uganda’s commitment to ongoing peace support operations in Somalia, South Sudan, and eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
“These efforts reflect our shared continental responsibility to ensure peace and security across Africa,” he added.
Lt Gen Muhanga also lauded the troops for their role in recent joint offensives conducted alongside the Somali National Army and international partners, which resulted in the capture and stabilisation of key towns including Sabii-Anole, Barrire, Awdhegeele, and Mubarak.
“These gains demonstrate effective coordination, resilience, and dedication to mission objectives,” he noted.
However, Sector One Commander Brigadier General Jackson Kayanja warned that the operational environment remains unpredictable, urging troops to maintain heightened alertness.
“The situation remains fluid, and I urge you to maintain high levels of vigilance and strict adherence to standard operating procedures to safeguard both personnel and our operational gains,” he said.
Brig Gen Kayanja also highlighted the importance of civil-military cooperation, stressing closer coordination with Somali forces and local communities to consolidate stability.
“Strengthening relations with local communities and enhancing cooperation with the Somali National Army is key to building trust, improving intelligence, and ensuring sustainable peace in liberated areas,” he said.
Battle Group 44 Commander, Colonel Owiny Akena, briefed the delegation on the prevailing operational environment and recent achievements within his area of responsibility.
The visit was attended by the AUSSOM Coordinator, representatives from military intelligence, contingent asset commanders, senior and junior officers, and mission partners.