AU honours Ugandan peacekeepers in Somalia

The African Union has honoured troops of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces’ Battle Group XLI under the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). 

The troops were decorated with medals and awarded certificates in recognition of their distinguished service during their peacekeeping tour of duty in Somalia.

At the same function on November 14th, the outgoing contingent handed over responsibilities to Battle Group XLV.

A release from the Directorate of Communications at the Ministry of Defence and Veterans' Affairs, the Sector One Commander, Brig  Joseph Musoke Ssemwanga, who represented the Force Commander, Lt Gen Sam Kavuma, hailed Col Michael Hyeroba and his troops for their commitment throughout offensive and defensive operations, which he said weakened Al-Shabaab activity in the Barawe and Baledamin sub-sectors.

Incoming commander, Col Justus Musenene of Battle Group XLV (right), receiving a handover report from his predecessor. (UPDF Photos)

In his remarks, Col Hyeroba thanked the UPDF leadership for trusting him with the command of Battle Group XLI. He appreciated Brig Gen Ssemwanga’s guidance, noting that it contributed to the successes registered during the mission.

Battle Group XLI ends its tour of duty with key achievements such as securing Barawe Airport, restricting Al-Shabaab’s freedom of movement, supporting and mentoring Somali National Army forces, and successful key leaders who contribute to the wider relative calm in the sub-sectors.

Brig  Musoke Ssemwanga expressed confidence in the incoming commander, Col Justus Musenene of Battle Group XLV and encouraged him to rely on his team, maintain high morale and remain adaptable as he takes charge of operations.

Col Michael Hyeroba receiving his medal.

In his maiden speech, Col Musenene affirmed his troops’ readiness to build on the achievements of their predecessors, saying the pre-mission training had prepared them to take on the new responsibilities.

The awarded soldiers represented the wider Battle Group, whose other troops had been decorated earlier in honour of their service and sacrifice in promoting stability in Somalia.

Senior military officers at the events included the incoming contingent commander Brig Gen Jackson Kayanja, Sector One Deputy Commander Col Francis Aragamoi, Contingent Administration Officer Col John Mark Ssemanda, Battle Group XLII Commander Col Sam Kosia Kuteesa, asset commanders, heads of departments, senior officers, junior officers and militants under Sector One.

Uganda was the first country to contribute troops to the Somalia peace efforts under the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), with over 6,000 troops in 2007, and maintains thousands more under AUSSOM.