Somalia Army Chief Commends UPDF Troops For Peace Efforts

The Chief of Defence Forces of the Somalia National Army (SNA), Major General Ibrahim Mohamed Mohamud, has commended Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) troops serving under the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) for their contribution to restoring peace and stability in Somalia.

“We appreciate your sacrifices. You have sweated and shed blood here to ensure that the people of Somalia enjoy peace. As a government, we are very grateful. Your legacy will remain and be remembered forever,” Maj Gen Ibrahim said.

He made the remarks during a meeting with the Battle Group 45 Commander, Col Dr Justus Musenene, and his key staff at the SNA 08 Brigade Headquarters in Embresso, Barawe District.

Maj Gen Ibrahim also commended the UPDF Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, for his commitment to Pan-Africanism, which he said had strengthened relations between Uganda and Somalia.

He revealed that the two countries were holding advanced discussions aimed at promoting Ugandan coffee in the Somali market, with the ambition of making it the leading coffee brand in Somalia.

In his remarks, Col Musenene thanked the SNA leadership for recognising the contribution of UPDF troops, describing the commendation as a significant morale booster.

He also appreciated SNA personnel and the local population, particularly in Barawe Sub-sector, for their cooperation and teamwork during joint operations.

“I have been here for a year, and I have not encountered any challenges in working with the SNA or the local community,” Col Musenene said.

He urged SNA personnel to embrace patriotism, love for their country and commitment to defending Somalia, noting that these values were essential to sustaining the country’s hard-won peace and stability.

Col Musenene further briefed Maj Gen Ibrahim on progress made through UPDF mentorship and capacity-building programmes, highlighting improvements in the SNA’s ability to independently defend the country.

It was attended by the Battle Group 45 Operations Officer, Maj Daudi Okema; Military Information Officer, Maj David Akandwanaho; Barawe-Embresso Forward Operating Base Commander, Maj Francis Odede; and Political Commissar, Maj Fred Emuron.

The SNA Chief of Defence Forces was accompanied by several generals and senior officers.