![](<a href="https://www.stanbicbank.co.ug/uganda/personal/about-us/our-community-investment" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> <img src="https://softpower.ug/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Deo-Bakery-RM_728x90-scaled.png" alt="Stanbic Bank Community Investment"> </a>)
Major General Francis Takirwa, Deputy Commander of Land Force, has urged Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) troops to uphold discipline, patience, and dedication as they prepare for deployment under the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) and the Uganda Military Training and Mentoring Team (UMTMT).
During the flag-off ceremony for Battlegroup XLII (42) and UMTMT IX (9) at the International Peace Support Operations Training Centre (IPSO-TC) in Singo, Maj Gen Takirwa emphasized the importance of ethical conduct and cooperation with local communities in achieving mission success.
He reminded the troops to remain humble, respectful, and culturally sensitive, stating, “You are not citizens of that country… be problem-solvers in the areas you are deployed.”
Brigadier General John Patrick Otongo, Commandant of the IPSO-TC, expressed confidence in the troops’ preparedness, stating that they have all the necessary skills to perform their duties in the mission area.
The ceremony was attended by Battlegroup commanders, senior and junior officers, as well as other military personnel.