Ugandan troops under the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) have been recognised for their exemplary contributions to promoting peace, security, and stability in Somalia.
Soldiers from Battle Group 39 were awarded certificates and commemorative medals during a ceremony in Mogadishu, attended by senior officials from ATMIS and the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF).
The ceremony was presided over by ATMIS Force Commander Lt. Gen. Sam Kavuma, who praised the troops for their commitment and dedication.
“I want to thank them for the commitment, hard work, and zeal to maintain and implement the ATMIS mandate,” Lt. Gen. Kavuma said.
“They have performed their duties diligently, and we have reason to thank God for the completion of their term. Today, we celebrate their achievements.”
The outgoing troops, led by Col. Benard Kashemeza, were lauded for their significant role in degrading the Al-Shabaab militia, securing Main Supply Routes (MSRs), protecting population centres, and supporting the capacity-building efforts of the Somali Security Forces (SSF) during their 13-month deployment.
Lt. Gen. Kavuma highlighted the pride brought to both ATMIS and Uganda through the troops’ unwavering commitment and bravery.
Battle Group 39 commenced operations in Somalia in November 2023, deploying to various Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) in the Banadir and Lower Shabelle regions.
Key locations included the main AU base camp and seaport in Mogadishu, Arbiska, Baledogle, Lantabur, and Al-Jazeera II and III. Their operations also extended to Ceel-Jaale, a critical location for advancing the ATMIS mandate.
Outgoing Contingent Commander Brig. Gen. Anthony Lukwago Mbuusi commended the troops for remaining steadfast even amid attempted attacks by Al-Shabaab.
He noted their collaborative efforts with the Somali Security Forces, which involved conducting offensive operations, protecting government infrastructure, and guiding Somali forces in counter-insurgency tactics.
Additionally, the troops played a pivotal role in resolving clan conflicts in the Lower Shabelle region by facilitating reconciliation talks with local leaders and communities.
As Battle Group 39 concludes its mission, Battle Group 42, led by Col. Cosea Kutesa, will take over operations.
Incoming Contingent Commander Brig. Gen. Joseph Musoke Ssemwanga and Uganda’s Defence Attaché to Somalia, Brig. Gen. Francis Chemo, attended the ceremony, underscoring the seamless transition and continuity of the mission’s objectives.
ATMIS, the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia, was established in April 2022 as a successor to the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM).
The mission aims to provide support to Somali Security Forces as they gradually take over the country’s security responsibilities.
ATMIS is tasked with countering the Al-Shabaab insurgency, securing strategic locations, and facilitating political stability in Somalia.
Uganda has been a key contributor to peacekeeping efforts in Somalia since 2007, deploying troops under AMISOM and now ATMIS.
The Ugandan forces work alongside counterparts from Burundi, Ethiopia, Djibouti, and Kenya to counter Al-Shabaab, an extremist group designated as a terrorist organisation by the United Nations.
Uganda’s contributions have been instrumental in disrupting Al-Shabaab’s operations, denying the group freedom of movement, and creating a conducive environment for governance and development in Somalia.
The outgoing troops have successfully carried out operations to secure Main Supply Routes, population centres, and critical infrastructure.
Their efforts in capacity-building for Somali forces have enhanced the latter’s operational capabilities.
Additionally, Ugandan soldiers have facilitated reconciliation talks in conflict-prone areas, furthering peace and stability.
Looking forward, Lt. Gen. Kavuma encouraged the incoming troops to uphold the standards set by their predecessors and work towards ensuring long-term peace and security in Somalia.
“They have left a legacy of excellence, and it is upon the incoming group to build upon this foundation,” he said.
As a longstanding partner in African Union peacekeeping missions, Uganda remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering regional stability and supporting Somalia’s journey towards self-reliance.
The contributions of its troops under ATMIS are a testament to this enduring partnership.
