The Chief of Defence Forces of the Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF), Maj Gen Odowaa Yusuf Rageh, has praised the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) for their critical role in maintaining peace and stability in Somalia under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission (AUSSOM).
Addressing UPDF troops at the 6th SNAF Brigade Headquarters in Barawe Sector on Sunday, Maj Gen Odowaa lauded their dedication and sacrifice.
“I want to thank you for the sacrifice you have made for the people of Somalia. You have given our soldiers great morale to defend their country,” he said.
He also extended his gratitude to President Museveni and the Ugandan government for their continued support to Somalia’s federal government and national armed forces in efforts to consolidate peace in the Horn of Africa.
Maj Gen Odowaa highlighted that residents of the Barawe Sector appreciate the security and stability provided by UPDF forces and have pledged to cooperate in maintaining peace.
He further revealed that SNAF has recently launched civil–military cooperation programs aimed at fostering stronger ties between the military and local communities.
Responding on behalf of Battle Group 45 Commander Col Justus Musenene, Lt Col Geoffrey Ochan, UPDF 145 Battalion Commander, commended the residents of Barawe for their cooperation, which has allowed AUSSOM forces to operate efficiently.
“We have not encountered any problems with the civilians in this area, and we commend them for their continued cooperation,” he said.
Lt Col Ochan urged both the Somali National Armed Forces and local communities to show patriotism, emphasizing that national unity would strengthen the fight against Al-Shabaab and support Somalia’s economic recovery.
He reaffirmed the UPDF’s commitment to assisting the Somali people in achieving a secure and peaceful nation.
The engagement was attended by Maj David Okema, the Battle Group 45 Operations Officer, alongside senior and junior officers from both the UPDF and SNAF, underscoring the ongoing collaboration between Ugandan troops and Somali security forces in stabilizing the region.
This meeting comes amid continued efforts by AUSSOM to consolidate security in southern Somalia, with UPDF troops playing a frontline role in protecting civilians and supporting Somali military operations against insurgents.
