Somalia governor commends UPDF for peace and stability in Lower Shabelle
The governor praised the UPDF for its professionalism and positive influence on the local population, noting that the values demonstrated by the troops would remain firmly rooted in the hearts of the people.
Battle Group 45 Commander, Col Dr Justus Musenene, receives Lower Shabelle Governor Abdifatah Said Ahmed and his delegation at the Battle Group headquarters in Embresso, Barawe District. (Courtesy)
______________ Lower Shabelle Governor Abdifatah Said Ahmed (in grey suit) and Battle Group 45 Commander Col Dr Justus Musenene (centre) pose for a group photograph with security officers and regional leaders from Lower Shabelle. (Courtesy)
The Governor of Lower Shabelle, Abdifatah Said Ahmed, has commended Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) troops serving under the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) for their contribution to restoring peace and stability in the region.
The Governor made the remarks during a meeting with Battle Group 45 Commander, Col Dr Justus Musenene, at the Battle Group headquarters in Embresso, Barawe District.
He praised the UPDF for its professionalism and positive influence on the local population, noting that the values demonstrated by the troops would remain firmly rooted in the hearts of the people.
In his remarks, Col Musenene urged Somali National Army (SNA) personnel to uphold discipline, teamwork and unity while rejecting tribalism, noting that cooperation and unity were essential in building a capable force to defend its country.
He appreciated the South West State Government, the Governor’s office and the local community for their continued support and cooperation with AUSSOM troops.
Col Musenene also emphasised the importance of respecting civilians during peace and security operations, noting that winning the hearts and minds of the population was critical to achieving lasting peace.
The SNA 08 Brigade Commander, Col Abdurahman Elmi, commended UPDF troops for their professionalism and dedication to the mission.
Early this month, Uganda announced a drawdown of the troops deployed in Somalia.
These include soldiers operating under bilateral arrangements with the Federal Government of Somalia plus those deployed under the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).
The first group returned home in October, with the final exit planned for the end of 2027.
The withdrawal will allow Somali Armed Forces to assume full responsibility for security in their country.
Uganda's first contingent landed in Mogadishu in March 2007 under the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM). Being the first country to deploy troops to Somalia, the UPDF has, for 20 years, played a pivotal role in stabilising the country against al-Shabaab insurgents.