By KT Reporter
Female Uganda People’s Defence Forces –UPDF soldiers in Somalia have been cautioned against indulging in anything that jeopardizes their security.
Lt Col Peter Ruyogoza Barigye, the Commander of the United Nations Guard Unit XI (UNGU-XI), said serving in Somalia requires fulltime security consciousness.
Lt Col Barigye said: “You female commanders and combatants serving in Somalia need to remain vigilant and committed to you mission. To achieve security success, it requires fulltime alertness.”
UPDF female soldiers were praised for their discipline, dedication, and resilience which Lt Col Barigye said is vital for the success of the entire Ugandan contingent in Somalia.
“Your dedication and resilience is vital contribution to the success of the UPDF missions both under UNGU and the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM),” Lt Col Barigye said.
Maj Jacob Gowan Kaburika, UNGU-XI Administrative Officer, urged troops to maintain regular contact with their families.
“Staying connected with your loved ones boosts morale and provides emotional support. It’s an important part of your well-being while on deployment,” Maj Kaburika said.
Additionally, Lt Col Barigye urged UPDF female combatants to remain alert and ensure that their security is not compromised. “Your presence and performance are central to the success of this mission. I encourage you to continue with teamwork and mutual support among the troops, especially for those operating in challenging environments,” Lt Col Barigye said.
AUSOM and Somali National Army (SNA) forces were also commended for their recent gains in Lower Shabelle, where a joint operation, codenamed Operation Silent Storm, successfully cleared Al-Shabaab militants from the Sabiid and Anole areas.
“These grounds were previously used by Al-Shabaab to launch attacks on UN and AUSSOM bases. Their liberation marks a significant step forward, but we must stay alert to any potential threats,” Lt Col Barigye said.
Al-Shabaab had recaptured many places in Lower Shabelle region many troops were withdrawn as part of the full drawdown process. The drawdown started after UN Security Council permanent member states reduced or completely stopped their funding to AMISOM in claims that foreign forces had outlived their usefulness.
Maj Teopista Opar Giramia, the Female Engagement and Gender Officer, highlighted the importance of personal health and situational awareness. “Your physical and mental fitness directly affects your effectiveness. We operate in a dynamic environment. Take your well-being seriously and remain alert at all times,” Maj Giramia said-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
