The Commander of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) contingent under the United Nations Guard Unit Eleven (UNGU-XI), Lieutenant Colonel Peter Ruyogoza Barigye, has paid a courtesy visit to the Uganda Embassy in Mogadishu, Somalia.
The visit aimed to strengthen collaboration between Uganda’s military and diplomatic missions as part of wider efforts to enhance peace and stability in Somalia and the broader region.
Uganda’s Deputy Ambassador to Somalia, Major General (Rtd) Nathan K. Mugisha, welcomed the delegation, describing the Embassy as a “home away from home” for Ugandans serving in Somalia. He reaffirmed the Embassy’s continued support to UPDF personnel deployed under both regional and international peacekeeping mandates.
Ambassador Mugisha commended the professionalism and sacrifice of the Ugandan troops, emphasizing their critical contribution to regional security and stability.
“Our peacekeeping efforts are deeply rooted in the ideals of Pan-Africanism,” Ambassador Mugisha stated. “We remain committed to supporting UPDF operations in Somalia, as we work together to secure peace in the Horn of Africa.”
During the visit, Lt Col Barigye pledged to maintain strong coordination with the Embassy and other key partners, underscoring the importance of unity in fulfilling the contingent’s peacekeeping responsibilities.
“Teamwork is essential for the success of our peacekeeping mission,” he said.
Uganda’s Defence Attaché to Somalia, Brigadier General Francis Chemonges, also attended the meeting, alongside several senior officers from UNGU-XI, including Major Jacob Gowan Kaburika, Deputy Contingent Commander; Major Topista Opar Giramia, Female Engagement and Gender Officer; Captain Joseph Maada Edube, Military Information Officer; the Civil-Military Relations Officer; and Captain Mustafa Ssegonja.
The meeting reinforced Uganda’s multi-faceted approach to promoting security, peace, and diplomacy in Somalia.
