Lt Gen Muhanga Concludes UPDF Troop Readiness Visit In Somalia

The Commander Land Force (CLF) of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), Lt Gen Kayanja Muhanga, concluded a three-day working visit to Ugandan troops serving under the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) and the United Nations Guard Unit XI (UNGU XI) today.

The visit was aimed at assessing the welfare, operational readiness, and ongoing efforts by the UPDF in combating the Al-Shabaab insurgency in Somalia.

Speaking to officers and militants in Mogadishu, Lt Gen Muhanga said, “This visit is part of my routine to check on and boost the morale of our troops in operational areas.”

 

He commended the UPDF’s performance in other operations, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) have been significantly degraded, no longer posing a threat to Uganda.

On troop welfare, the CLF reassured personnel of continued support from the strategic leadership, emphasising the army’s commitment to career development, welfare, and steady promotion within the ranks.

During his visit to the UN Guard Unit XI, Lt Gen Muhanga applauded the troops for their discipline, high morale, and commitment to duty.

He emphasised the importance of physical and mental well-being, urging troops to prioritize their health, stating, “Your health is paramount; take care of it at all times.”

On financial matters, he encouraged soldiers to continue saving through the Wazalendo SACCO, noting that a better future awaited those who plan.

Brig Gen Joseph Musoke Ssemwanga, the Sector One Commander, expressed gratitude to the CLF for his continued support and guidance despite his busy schedule.

He was accompanied by senior UPDF officials, including the AUSSOM Force Commander, Lt Gen Sam Kavuma; Brig Gen Pande Kajuba, Director of Operations Land Forces; Col Victor Busobozi, AUSSOM Coordinator; Col Albert Kashakamba, Director of Intelligence Land Forces; and other staff officers.