African Union Envoy Commends UPDF Battle Group 47 For Somalia Stabilisation Efforts

What the report says

The African Union Commission’s Special Representative, Ambassador El-Hadji Ibrahima Diene, has praised Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces Battle Group 47 for its role in supporting peace and security in Somalia, according to Watchdog Uganda. The remarks were made during a visit to the unit’s headquarters at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Ceeljaale, as well as to the Marka and Qoryooley sub-sectors in Somalia’s Lower Shabelle region.

During the visit, Diene thanked the Ugandan troops for what he described as strong performance in the mission area. He also urged them to stay alert, protect forward bases and continue supporting civilian communities in their area of responsibility. The comments came against the backdrop of the African Union-led mission in Somalia, where regional forces continue to work with Somali authorities against insecurity.

Brig Gen Jackson Kayanja, identified as the Sector One Commander and Acting Force Commander, told commanders and troops to remain disciplined and professional while operating under the AUSSOM mandate in support of Somalia’s federal government and national army. Battle Group 47 commander Col Wilson Barigye said the unit remained focused on helping stabilize Somali security forces and on reducing Al-Shabaab’s freedom of movement and action. The visit was attended by mission officials and UPDF officers.

The report highlights Uganda’s continuing contribution to multinational security efforts in Somalia, where African Union forces have long played a stabilizing role amid persistent militant threats and efforts to strengthen local security institutions.