UPDF flags off Battle Group XLVII to Somalia

NAKASEKE - The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, flagged off Battle Group XLVII (BG 47) to the mission area in Somalia following the successful completion of pre-deployment training at the International Peace Support Operations Training Centre (IPSOTC) in Singo, Nakaseke District.

At the flag-off events on April 28, the Commander of UPDF 1 Division, Brig Gen Fred Mwesigye, on behalf of the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, commended the troops for their dedication and previous contributions to national security, particularly during recent electoral operations.

A release from the Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs, Mwesigye urged them to maintain discipline, teamwork and professionalism while in the mission area.

“You are going on a mission, not for leisure. Remain focused, work as a team, and adhere strictly to the guidance of your commanders,” he emphasised.

He cautioned the troops against indiscipline, including alcohol abuse and negligence while on duty, noting that such actions could undermine both individual safety and the UPDF's reputation.

He further stressed the importance of respecting fellow soldiers, including female personnel, and maintaining high moral standards.

Brig Gen Mwesigye reminded the troops that they carry the image of Uganda and the UPDF, urging them to uphold the force’s legacy.

“The eyes of the country are on you. Go and perform your duties professionally and return safely,” he added.

He also thanked the UPDF leadership for the opportunity to flag off BG XLVII. He also applauded the Commandant of IPSOTC and his team for their commitment to training UPDF troops.

The Commandant of IPSOTC, Colonel Moses Nabaasa, welcomed the chief guest and congratulated the troops upon completing the rigorous pre-deployment training.

He noted that the training, which commenced in November, was designed to prepare the soldiers physically, mentally and professionally for the demands of peace support operations.

“The overall preparedness of the Battle Group stands at 95 per cent, which is a strong testament to the commitment and resilience of both the trainees and instructors,” Col Nabaasa stated.

Col Nabaasa reminded the troops that they would deploy as a unified force, carrying the responsibility of representing Uganda on the international stage.

“You are going as one Battle Group  — united in purpose and bound by duty. Be good ambassadors of Uganda and uphold the values of the UPDF,” Col Nabaasa advised.

The Commander of Battle Group XLVII, Colonel Wilson Barigye, expressed gratitude to the IPSOTC leadership and instructors for their commitment to preparing the troops.

“I cannot thank the instructors enough for the knowledge and skills imparted to our personnel. The success of our mission will reflect the quality of the training we have received,” he said.

Col Barigye assured the UPDF leadership and the nation that the battle group is ready for the task ahead and committed to accomplishing its mission.

“I am confident that the troops will execute their duties with professionalism, courage and discipline. We shall not let you down,” he affirmed.

In her remarks, the LC1 Chairperson of Kakoola North, Doreen Ayebare, appreciated the UPDF for its continued commitment to safeguarding communities and fostering peace both within Uganda and beyond its borders.

Mwesigye urged them to maintain discipline, teamwork and professionalism while in the mission area.

She commended the strong relationship between the UPDF and the local communities, noting that the force has consistently responded swiftly whenever called upon to address security concerns in the surrounding areas.

She further acknowledged the role of the International Peace Support Operations Training Centre in promoting security and cooperation with neighbouring villages.

Ayebare expressed gratitude on behalf of the local leadership and residents for the professionalism and support extended by the UPDF and wished the troops of Battle Group XLVII success in their mission, urging them to serve with discipline and return home safely.

Deployment:

Battle Group XLVII will be deployed to Somalia under the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) framework, where they will join other UPDF contingents in efforts to stabilise the region and support peace-building initiatives.

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 stabilising 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.

Relatedly, Uganda Air Force plays a significant role in managing and securing the airport in Mogadishu.