Ugandan contingent welcomes new deputy commander in Somalia
The outgoing deputy commander was hailed for his contribution to key operations, including Operations Silent Storm, Hidden Sword, and Rolling Thunder, which played a significant role in the liberation and stabilisation of several areas, including Sabiid-Anole, Barrire, Awadglee, Mubarak, Durasalaam, Jerib, and Danane.
Brig. Gen. Jackson Kayanja (centre) poses for a group photo with fellow officers during the handover and takeover ceremony. (Courtesy)
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The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) contingent serving under the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) has received a new Deputy Contingent Commander, Colonel Jude Rukubya, who replaces Colonel Francis Obita Aragamoi upon completion of his tour of duty.
The handover and takeover ceremony on July 1, was presided over by the Contingent Commander, Brig. Gen. Jackson Kayanja, who commended Col Aragamoi for his leadership, professionalism, and dedication during his deployment.
He hailed the outgoing deputy commander for his contribution to key operations, including Operations Silent Storm, Hidden Sword, and Rolling Thunder, which he said played a significant role in the liberation and stabilisation of several areas, including Sabiid-Anole, Barrire, Awadglee, Mubarak, Durasalaam, Jerib, and Danane.
Col Francis Aragamoi reads his report during the handover and takeover ceremony. (Courtesy)
“Col Aragamoi has performed exceptionally well during his tenure as Deputy contingent commander. His leadership in Operations Silent Storm, Hidden Sword, and Rolling Thunder greatly contributed to the mission’s success. He has been hardworking, dedicated, and cooperative,” Brig. Gen. Kayanja said, according to a release from the ministry of Defence and Veterans' Affairs.
He expressed confidence that Col Rukubya's experience and leadership would further strengthen the contingent’s ability to deliver on the AUSSOM mandate.
In his initial speech, Col Aragamoi expressed appreciation to the UPDF leadership for entrusting him with the responsibility to serve in Somalia. He also thanked Brig. Gen. Kayanja for his mentorship and support throughout his tenure.
“I sincerely thank the UPDF strategic leadership for the opportunity to serve in the mission area. I am equally grateful to the Contingent Commander for his guidance and support during my time in office,” he said.
Col Rukubya. (Courtesy)
Col Francis Aragamoi hands over the report and other serviceable materials to the incoming duty contingent commander, Col Jude Rukubya, during the handover ceremony. (Courtesy)
The ceremony also featured a parallel handover of the office of Contingent Operations Officer, with Lt Col Garvas Kabagambe handing over duties to Lt Col Joseph Tibenda Uma Savimbi.
The event was attended by senior and junior officers, as well as non-commissioned officers serving under the UPDF contingent in AUSSOM.