Troops of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) serving under United Nations Guard Unit 12 (UNGU XII) have successfully completed an induction and security training program in Mogadishu, aimed at strengthening their preparedness for mission duties in Somalia.
The training, supported by the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS), covered key areas including access control procedures, cultural awareness, improvised explosive device (IED) awareness, camp security, and the United Nations mandate.
Additional modules were designed to equip personnel with the knowledge and skills required for diverse responsibilities in the mission area.
Lieutenant Colonel Nathan Akankunda, Commanding Officer of UNGU XII, emphasised the importance of the training, urging troops to apply the knowledge and skills acquired in the field.
“I urge you to take such courses seriously and put into practice the knowledge and skills attained in the operational environment,” he said.
Akankunda also commended the facilitators, organizers, and UNSOS leadership for their teamwork and commitment to equipping personnel with relevant operational knowledge.
Project instructor Kevin Macias noted that the training had placed participants in a stronger position to execute their duties effectively and contribute to a safe and secure mission environment.
Project Manager David Romolerovx and UN Security Officer Maria Ana Dabasdal thanked the UNGU leadership and participants for demonstrating discipline, commitment, and professionalism throughout the training program.
Speaking on behalf of the trainees, Captain Tonny Onen and Sergeant Kalambizi Geoffrey called on their colleagues to continue upholding the values of integrity, discipline, professionalism, respect for diversity, and teamwork, highlighting their importance in military service and operational decision-making.
The course closure was attended by the Deputy Commander of UNGU XII, Major Ismail Kisitu Senoga, as well as officers commanding, heads of departments, and other partners who participated in celebrating the completion of the program.
