The Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation of South West State of Somalia, H.E. Iman Ali Abdi, has commended Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) troops serving under the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) for their contribution to infrastructure development and peace and stability in Barawe Sub-sector.
Minister Iman made the remarks on Monday afternoon during a courtesy visit to Battle Group 45 Headquarters at Embresso, Barawe District.
He commended the UPDF troops for supporting local communities, promoting peace and demonstrating the spirit of Pan-Africanism through their work.
“Thank you for the support you have given to our local community. We are all Africans, and you have truly demonstrated the spirit of Pan-Africanism. Let’s keep it up,” Minister Iman said.
He pledged the South West State Government’s support towards maintaining infrastructure and promoting stability in the region.
The Barawe District Commissioner, Mr Abdullahi Umar Mohamed, attributed the prevailing peace and stability in the sub-sector to the contribution of UPDF troops through their military operations.
The Battle Group 45 Commander, Colonel Dr Justus Musenene, said engagements with local leaders and community representatives boost the morale of officers and soldiers.
Col Musenene highlighted the longstanding relationship between Uganda and Somalia, describing the two countries as brotherly nations.
“Working with you here is like working with people back home in Uganda. Ever since we arrived, you have been good to us,” he said.
He reaffirmed Battle Group 45’s commitment to degrading Al-Shabaab and consolidating peace and stability in the region.
The 66 Brigade Commander, Colonel Abdurahman Elmi, recognised the contribution of UPDF troops, particularly through joint operations, which he said had helped promote peace in the region.
Minister Iman was accompanied by the South West State Minister of Education, H.E. Mohamed Osman Haji, Members of Parliament and Barawe District officials.
