U.S Envoy to Somalia Commends UPDF Troops for Bravery and Professionalism

The United States Ambassador to Somalia, H.E. Richard Riley, has hailed the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) troops serving under the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) for their bravery, professionalism, and sacrifice in the fight against terrorism.

Ambassador Riley made the remarks during a visit to the UPDF Sector One Level II Hospital in Mogadishu, where he commended the soldiers for their recent achievements, particularly in operations in Bariire. “I thank you for your service, bravery, and commitment, and for all you have done for the people of Uganda and Somalia,” Ambassador Riley said. “Wherever you are, we are always thinking of you, and we are doing all we can to support you.”

He reaffirmed the US Embassy’s commitment to working closely with Uganda, describing the UPDF as “one of the most respected militaries in the world” for its professionalism and dedication.

Sector One Commander Brig Gen Joseph Musoke Ssemwanga expressed appreciation for the US government’s continued support in joint operations against Al-Shabaab. “We will forever appreciate the support the US gives us. Bancroft is always with us, and this keeps us going,” Brig Gen Ssemwanga said.

Capt Dr Robert Obwapus, Commanding Officer of the Level II Hospital, noted that the facility serves not only soldiers but also the local Somali community under civil-military cooperation initiatives. As the largest referral hospital in Halane Basecamp, he said it has seen a steady increase in civilian patients seeking treatment.

Ambassador Riley was accompanied by Matthew Younger, Political Economic Chief; Maj Luis Arauz, Security Cooperation Program Manager; and Mohamed Yussuf, Press and Media Coordinator at the US Embassy. Also present were Col John Mark Ssemanda, Sector One Administration Officer, and Capt Ibrahim Kasule Sekitto, Sector One Public Information Officer, among others.