AU honours Ugandan troops for contributions to Somalia’s stability

Lt Gen. Kavuma praised the soldiers, who have completed their one-year tour of duty, for successfully implementing AUSSOM’s mandate, which prioritises civilian protection and development through peace and security.

AUSSOM Force Commander, Lt Gen. Sam Kavuma awards a medal to a Ugandan soldier. (Courtesy photo)

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Journalists @New Vision

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The African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) has honoured Ugandan soldiers for their dedication and contribution to Somalia’s peace and stability.

On Friday (Feb. 21) the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) soldiers of Battle Group XL (40), received medals and certificates in recognition of their service.

AUSSOM Force Commander, Lt Gen. Sam Kavuma presided over the colourful ceremony in the Mogadishu capital.

A guard of honour mounted by Sector 1 officers during the medal award ceremony held in Mogadishu. (Courtesy)

A guard of honour mounted by Sector 1 officers during the medal award ceremony held in Mogadishu. (Courtesy)

AUSSOM Force Commander, Lt Gen. Sam Kavuma inspects the guard of honour. (Courtesy photo)

Senior AU Mission officials and UPDF commanders were among the dignitaries at the events.

Addressing the peacekeepers, Lt Gen. Kavuma praised the soldiers, who have completed their one-year tour of duty, for successfully implementing AUSSOM’s mandate, which prioritises civilian protection and development through peace and security.

“I want to congratulate Battle Group 40 under the able leadership of Col Topher Magino for the good job during your year of service, you worked closely with other contingents and battle groups in promoting peace and security for the state and people of Somalia," said Lt Gen. Kavuma.

AUSSOM Force Commander, Lt Gen. Sam Kavuma, speaking during the medal award ceremony. (Courtesy photo)

A release from the AUSSOM media centre states that the outgoing Battle Group XL (40), deployed to Somalia in January 2024, was tasked with securing key areas, including Mogadishu, Ceel Jaale, Buufow, Janaale, KM67, Shalambot, and Qoryoley in Lower Shabelle region.

Deputy Uganda Contingent Commander, Col Christopher Tumwine, praised the group’s achievements, which included conducting successful joint operations with the Somali Security Forces (SSF), securing main supply routes, countering Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), mentoring local security forces and engaging in civil-military cooperation (CIMIC) activities.

(Courtesy photo)

“I commend Battle Group XL for their remarkable achievements. Thank you for your dedication to supporting the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) and for upholding the principles of peace and security,” said Col Tumwine.

AUSSOM Uganda Contingent Commander Brigadier Joseph Ssemwanga, Contingent Administrative Officer Colonel John Mark Ssemanda and incoming Commander of Battle Group XLIII (43), Colonel Robert Koch attended the ceremony.

UPDF was the first to deploy troops under the African Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) in Somalia in March 2007 to restore peace in the war-torn country.

In April 2022, the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) was reconfigured as the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS).

Effective January 1, 2025, ATMIS was replaced with the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).

The decision followed The UN Security Council Resolution 2767 (2024) endorsed the African Union Peace and Security Council's decision.