The Commander of the United Nations Guard Unit XI (UNGU-XI), Lt Col Peter Ruyogoza Barigye, has called on female officers and combatants of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) serving in Somalia to remain vigilant and committed to their mission.
Speaking during a routine engagement at the UNGU-XI headquarters, Lt Col Barigye praised the discipline, dedication, and resilience of the female personnel. He emphasised their vital contribution to the success of the UPDF missions both under the United Nations Guard Unit and the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). “You must remain alert and ensure that our security is not compromised,” he said. “Your presence and performance are central to the success of this mission.”
He encouraged continued teamwork and mutual support among the troops, especially for those operating in challenging environments.
Lt Col Barigye also commended AUSSOM and Somali National Army (SNA) forces for their recent gains in Lower Shabelle, where a joint operation, codenamed Operation Silent Storm, successfully cleared Al-Shabaab militants from the Sabiid and Anole areas. “These grounds were previously used by Al-Shabaab to launch attacks on UN and AUSSOM bases,” he noted. “Their liberation marks a significant step forward, but we must stay alert to any potential threats.”
The meeting also featured remarks from other officers. UNGU-XI Administrative Officer, Major Jacob Gowan Kaburika, urged troops to maintain regular contact with their families. “Staying connected with your loved ones boosts morale and provides emotional support,” he said. “It’s an important part of your well-being while on deployment.”
Major Teopista Opar Giramia, the Female Engagement and Gender Officer, highlighted the importance of personal health and situational awareness. “Your physical and mental fitness directly affects your effectiveness,” she told the group. “We operate in a dynamic environment. Take your well-being seriously and remain alert at all times.”
The meeting was attended by officers and female combatants serving under UNGU-XI in Somalia.
