AUSSOM Troops Sharpen Operational Skills in UK-Led Workshop

Troops from the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) completed a four-day operational planning workshop aimed at enhancing the capabilities of military and police personnel in mission operations.

 

The workshop, facilitated by the United Kingdom Mission Support Team (UKMST) in Somalia, focused on strengthening operational planning skills among AUSSOM officers and personnel.

 

Speaking at the closing ceremony, the AUSSOM Deputy Force Commander for Operations and Planning, Major General Marius Ngendabanka, highlighted the significance of the training, stating that it “brought together professional and dedicated personnel to enhance their ability to plan, coordinate, and execute operations effectively.”

 

Sector One Commander, Brig Gen Joseph Musoke Ssemwanga, thanked the UKMST team, led by Col Ben Ramsey, for their facilitation, emphasizing that “the more we train, the more we gain operational experience” and that such workshops help troops share ideas, interact, and address battlefield challenges.

 

Col. Ramsey commended AUSSOM troops for their dedication and bravery in restoring peace in Somalia, noting that it was “a unique opportunity for UK soldiers to work closely with our African brothers and sisters and learn from each other” in a challenging environment that requires proper planning and execution for mission success.

 

On behalf of the trainees, Major Casper Sakusi described the workshop as hands-on and promised to apply the lessons learned for the betterment of troops in the mission area.

 

Participants included 10 officers from the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), three officers from the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), three AUSSOM Uganda Police officers, and one Nigeria Police officer.

 

The closing ceremony was attended by all Joint Staff Chiefs from AUSSOM Force Headquarters and key Sector One staff officers.