AU Envoy Applauds UPDF For Anchoring Somalia’s Stability

The Acting Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (SRCC) in Somalia, Mr. Adebayo Kareem has lauded the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) for its steadfast role in stabilising Somalia. His remarks came during his inaugural visit to Sector One headquarters in Mogadishu on Monday.

Mr. Kareem, who also heads the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), applauded Uganda for being the first country to deploy troops to Somalia under the African Union’s initiative at a time when the country was grappling with a devastating civil war and rampant piracy in the Indian Ocean. “The role of Uganda, the UPDF, and its people will go down in the history of Africa for helping Somalia become what we see here today,” Mr. Kareem stated.

He acknowledged that the UPDF’s strength and operational effectiveness forced the Al-Shabaab insurgents to shift tactics to complex asymmetrical warfare, unable to confront Ugandan troops head-on. “Sector One, under UPDF command, is the centre of gravity and pivotal to the stability and functioning of Somalia,” he added, underscoring the strategic importance of Uganda’s deployment.

Mr. Kareem also expressed deep appreciation to the UPDF and the Ugandan government for their enduring commitment to peace and security in Somalia. He pledged continued AU support for civil-military cooperation initiatives aimed at improving the lives of Somali citizens and reaffirmed the continental body’s dedication to ensuring Somalia is not left behind.

AUSSOM Force Commander Lt Gen Sam Kavuma hailed the visit as timely and significant, reiterating the strategic value of Sector One.

The sector encompasses the Lower Shabelle region, Somalia’s agricultural heartland and hosts key installations including Villa Somalia (the presidential palace), Parliament, Mogadishu International Airport, the seaport, foreign embassies, and offices of international organizations.

Sector One Commander, Brig Gen Joseph Ssemwanga described Mr. Kareem’s visit as “a great morale booster” for the troops.

Also in attendance were Sector Administration Officer Col John Mark Ssemanda, Sector One Operations Officer Col David Watasa, and other key staff officers.