160 Ugandan Police officers honoured for role in Somalia
“This medal parade is a testament to your resilience, dedication, and sacrifices in the fight against Al-Shabaab and the broader peace-building mission under the African Union mission,” said Bam in his address to the officers who have completed their tour of duty.
Acting Head of AUSSOM, Sivuyile Bam awards an AU medal of honour to a member of the Uganda Formed Police Unit at a ceremony in Mogadishu on March 20, 2025. (Credit: AUSSOM)
Charles Etukuri
Senior Writer @New Vision
The African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) has honoured 160 Ugandan Police officers for their outstanding contribution to Somalia’s peace and security.
The officers are from the 12th contingent of the Uganda Formed Police Unit (UFPU-12), a statement from AUSSOM said.
They received African Union medals of honour at a colorful ceremony in Mogadishu presided over by the acting Head of AUSSOM, Sivuyile Bam.
“This medal parade is a testament to your resilience, dedication, and sacrifices in the fight against Al-Shabaab and the broader peace-building mission under the African Union mission,” said Bam in his address to the officers who have completed their tour of duty.
“Despite the tough conditions and high risks, you have shown unwavering determination and stood firm in the face of adversity," he added during the event held at the AUSSOM Force headquarters in Somalia's capital.
"Your bravery and professionalism have not only helped to restore law and order but have also strengthened the trust and confidence of the Somali people."
Bam praised the Ugandan government for commitment to regional peace and stability.
The UFPU-12 contingent was deployed to Somalia in April 2024 under the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS).
160 UFPU-12 officers were recognized for their work in Somalia. (Credit: AUSSOM)
It has had a hand in the AU mission’s success through operational support to the Somali Police Force.
AUSSOM Police Commissioner AIGP Hillary Sao Kanu said the journey of UFPU-12 in Somalia has been of "resilience, discipline, and dedication to duty".
“The successful execution of joint operations with the Somali Police Force, your assistance in supporting the electoral processes, and your commitment to upholding human rights have significantly contributed to AUSSOM’s success," he said.
SSP Justus Asiimwe, the UFPU-12 Contingent Commander, praised the officers for closely collaborating with the Nigerian Formed Police Unit and Ugandan troops at their shared camp in Mogadishu.
“We will always cherish the experiences and relationships that we have developed and cultivated. No two groups understand each other better than us and Nigeria,” he said.
AUSSOM Formed Police Units (FPUs) provide operational support to SPF, including VIP escort and protection, security at high-level events, mentorship and training, and securing key government installations.
Alongside Uganda and Nigeria, other countries contributing FPUs to AUSSOM are Ghana and Sierra Leone.
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