Kampala (KAAB TV) – The Government of Uganda has announced the deployment of a new contingent of troops to Somalia in the coming days as part of the African Union Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), a peacekeeping initiative aimed at supporting stability and counterterrorism operations in the country.
The announcement was made during a briefing session led by Major General Francis Takirwa, the Deputy Commander of the Ugandan Land Forces, who addressed the new group of soldiers set to join Uganda’s long-standing peacekeeping presence in Somalia.
During the preparatory meeting, Gen. Takirwa urged the troops to uphold discipline, professionalism, and the spirit of African solidarity while carrying out their duties abroad.
“You must always promote the unity and moral values of African communities, focusing on patriotism and the defense of your country’s interests,” he said.
“Your mission is not only to serve Uganda but to contribute to the collective peace and stability of the African continent.”
The Major General emphasized that the deployment is part of Uganda’s ongoing commitment to regional peace and security, particularly in efforts to suppress the activities of the extremist group Al-Shabaab, which continues to launch attacks across Somalia and neighboring countries.
He also highlighted the importance of maintaining close cooperation with Somali security forces and other African Union partners to ensure long-term stability in the region.
Uganda was the first country to deploy troops to Somalia in 2007 under the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), which later transitioned to the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) and, more recently, the African Union Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) as part of a revised mandate focused on supporting Somalia’s gradual assumption of full security responsibilities.
To date, Uganda remains the largest troop-contributing country to the AU mission, with its forces primarily stationed in southern Somalia, including key areas such as Mogadishu, Lower Shabelle, and the Bay regions.
The Ugandan People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) have been instrumental in combating insurgents, securing major supply routes, and supporting humanitarian efforts.
The new deployment reflects Uganda’s continued dedication to African-led peacekeeping and regional cooperation in the Horn of Africa.
It also aligns with broader continental goals of fostering unity, peace, and sustainable development across Africa.