Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) troops operating under the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), together with their Somali counterparts, have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation with community leaders and business representatives in Aribiska, Afgoye District, during a Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) meeting aimed at promoting peace and security.
The District Commissioner of Afgoye, Mr Suidan Abdulahi Hiraabe, underscored the importance of unity and cooperation between Somali authorities and the UPDF in maintaining peace and stability.
He commended UPDF troops for their contribution to providing security in Aribiska and pledged continued cooperation with AUSSOM to sustain security and stability in the area.
The Commander of Battle Group 46, Colonel Saul Nabimanya, whose troops operate under AUSSOM, appreciated the Somalia National Army (SNA), Aribiska Police Force and local community for their cooperation, resilience and collective efforts in degrading Al-Shabaab and maintaining security.
The Aribiska Police Commander, Lieutenant Muhammad Ali, thanked AUSSOM troops for their close cooperation with Somali security forces, particularly in detecting and eliminating improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in the Lower Shabelle region.
Commander Dahab, Colonel Isse Abdulah, also commended the teamwork and collective efforts demonstrated by UPDF troops in combating Al-Shabaab.
Representing community elders, Mr Adan Mohmmed expressed gratitude to UPDF troops serving under AUSSOM for their role in maintaining security and reaffirmed the community’s commitment to supporting them in fulfilling their mandate.
The meeting was attended by senior UPDF officers, including Col Gaston Mugarura, junior officers, community elders, representatives of the Somalia National Army and Police Force, and members of the business community.
