Somalia – The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Battlegroup XLII has been awarded African Union medals in recognition of their exemplary service during their deployment with the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).
The award ceremony coincided with the formal handover as Battlegroup XLII passed responsibilities to the incoming Battlegroup XLVI.
AUSSOM Force Commander, Lt Gen Sam Kavuma, praised the outgoing unit for its resilience, discipline, and leadership in maintaining security across its area of operations.
He singled out the battlegroup’s role in Operation Silent Storm, which successfully dislodged Al-Shabaab militants from Sabiid-Anole, Barire, and Awdheegle. “Medals are a sign of recognition for exemplary performance and hard work, and Battlegroup XLII has achieved all this. You exhibited resilience and dedication during your tour, particularly in Operation Silent Storm,” Lt Gen Kavuma said.
Addressing the incoming Battlegroup XLVI, Lt Gen Kavuma urged them to decisively address Al-Shabaab threats and safeguard the gains made since Uganda first deployed troops to Somalia in 2007.
Sector One Commander, Brig Gen Joseph Musoke Ssemwanga, commended Col Kosia Kutesa, outgoing Battlegroup commander, for his outstanding leadership, and encouraged Col Saul Nabimanya, the incoming commander, to prioritise teamwork, hard work, and adaptive leadership.
Col Kutesa thanked UPDF leadership for the opportunity to command the battlegroup and expressed gratitude to the Contingent Commander and his team for their support throughout his deployment. Col Nabimanya pledged to build on the achievements of his predecessor, focusing on advancing mission objectives and protecting key stakeholders.
The ceremony was attended by incoming Uganda Contingent Commander Brig Gen Jackson Kayanja, Deputy Contingent Commander Col Francis Obita Aragamoi, Director of Intelligence–Land Forces Col Albert Kashakamba, as well as commanders from other UPDF battlegroups, senior and junior officers, and other dignitaries.
