The United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) has donated two Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFVs) to the UPDF contingent serving under the United Nations Guard Unit (UNGU XI) in Somalia.
The vehicles were handed over by UNSOS Chief Transport Officer Manon Richard.
He commended the UPDF Guard Unit for its professionalism and reliable partnership.
“We appreciate the unit’s excellent training and collaboration. These vehicles will enhance mobility and operational efficiency, especially for the emergency response team during crises,” she said.
Lieutenant Colonel Peter Ruyogoza Barigye, Commanding Officer of UNGU XI, described the donation as a crucial enhancement to the unit’s capabilities.
“This significant support from the UN greatly improves our operational effectiveness. These vehicles will enhance our capacity to fulfil our mandate and ensure the safety of both our troops and the UN community,” he stated.
Captain Eric Mugabe Mugwani, who leads the Emergency Response Team, stressed the operational impact of the new vehicles.
“These IFVs will significantly strengthen our emergency response capabilities. We are grateful for the continued support,” he said.
The emergency response team plays a key role in responding to security threats, managing humanitarian emergencies, and maintaining stability in complex environments.
Senior commanders and staff officers of UNGU XI attended the handover ceremony.
Uganda was the first country to deploy troops under the African Union in Somalia in 2007.
Ugandan troops have since played a crucial role in expelling Al Shabaab from the capital Mogadishu, protecting UN offices and employees and also protecting key Somali government installations.
On the other hand, Uganda has lost a number of troops during the war in Somalia.
