Land forces chief Muhanga inspects Ugandan troops in Somalia, hails operational gains

AWDHEGEELE - Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces commander of Land Forces Lieutenant General Kayanja Muhanga, has conducted an operational visit to Ugandan troops deployed in Somalia under the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), assessing their combat readiness and operational effectiveness.

The army in a statement said during the April 28, 2026, visits to the Awdhegeele and Barrire forward operating bases, Muhanga commended the troops for their professionalism, discipline and contribution to regional peace and security.

“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.

Muhanga emphasised the importance of teamwork and the spirit of Pan-Africanism, reaffirming Uganda’s commitment to supporting what he described as “our brothers and sisters in Somalia,” as well as deployments in South Sudan and eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

“These efforts reflect our shared continental responsibility to ensure peace and security across Africa,” he added.

Muhanga praised the troops for their role in recent joint offensive operations conducted alongside the Somali National Army and international partners, which led to the capture and stabilisation of key towns, including Sabii-Anole, Barrire, Awdhegeele, and most recently Mubarak.

“These gains demonstrate effective coordination, resilience, and dedication to mission objectives,” he noted.

Sector One Commander Brigadier General Jackson Kayanja, urged troops to remain vigilant, warning that the security environment remains unpredictable.

“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.

Kayanja underscored the importance of civil-military cooperation and coordination with Somali forces.

“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 current 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.

Uganda first to deploy

Uganda was the first country to deploy troops to Somalia in March 2007 under the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), playing a pivotal role in stabilizing the country against al-Shabaab insurgents. Other countries key troop-contributing countries include, Ethiopia, Djibouti, Kenya, Egypt and Burundi.

The UPDF holds primary responsibility for Sector One, which is one of the most critical areas in Somalia. This includes Mogadishu (Benadir Region) and the UPDF controls significant parts of the capital city, including the security of the international airport, State House and Parliament.

Uganda maintains a heavy presence in the Lower Shabelle region, focusing on securing key agricultural areas and towns.

UPDF forces hold and operate in key towns and strategic areas sch as; Mubarak Town, Darusalam, Awdheegle and its strategic bridge, Bariire and its strategic bridge, Sabiid and Caanole, Hawaadley among others.

Uganda Air Forces play a significant role in managing and securing the airport in Mogadishu.