UPDF Welcomes Battle Group 48 To Somalia Mission Area

The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), serving under the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), welcomed troops of Battle Group 48 into the mission area.

Battle Group 48, commanded by Col Michael Opio Ocuka, is replacing Battle Group 45 as part of the routine rotation of forces deployed under the mission.

Sector One Commander Brig Gen Jackson Kayanja urged them to uphold discipline, professionalism and vigilance throughout their deployment.

Brig Gen Kayanja described personal discipline as a cornerstone of the UPDF and called on the troops to practise conscious discipline, respect the chain of command and maintain mutual respect.

“Personal discipline is the key to your success. Embrace conscious discipline rather than mechanical discipline, and all will be well with you in this mission area,” he said.

He further urged the troops to embrace teamwork, remain vigilant and demonstrate commitment and hard work in carrying out their duties, noting that these qualities are essential in countering the threat posed by Al-Shabaab.

Brig Gen Kayanja also emphasised the importance of ideological orientation and Pan-Africanism in guiding the troops as they executed the AUSSOM mandate in Somalia.

“We are here to advance the Pan-African agenda and fulfil the AUSSOM mandate,” he said.

The Sector One Deputy Commander, Col Jude Rukubya, encouraged the incoming personnel to remain flexible and adapt to the operational environment.

“Be flexible in everything and ready to learn new things,” Col Rukubya said, urging the troops to learn from their colleagues and work collectively to accomplish their assigned tasks.

The welcome meeting was attended by the Sector One Administration Officer, Col Hamza Kasajja, alongside other senior and junior officers and personnel.