UPDF Battle Group Commanders Assess Troops In Somalia

What the report says

Uganda People’s Defence Forces commanders serving in Somalia under the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) have inspected troops at forward operating bases in the Barawe and Beldamin sub-sectors of Lower Shabelle. The visit was led by Col Dr Justus Musenene and Col Michael Opio Ocuka, who are in charge of UPDF Battle Groups 45 and 48, respectively, according to Watchdog Uganda.

The commanders said the tour was intended to gauge morale and operational performance. During the assessment, Col Musenene urged troops to stay alert, maintain discipline and keep military equipment in good condition. Watchdog Uganda also reported that he praised Battle Group 45 for its work during its deployment.

Col Ocuka commended the outgoing unit and said its performance had created a standard for the incoming Battle Group 48 to match. His remarks suggested a handover period between the two battlegroups as Uganda continues its contribution to the Somalia mission.

The commanders were joined by several senior officers, including Lt Col Morris Twongyeirwe Kyatoko, Lt Col Donald Naijuka and Lt Col Geoffrey Ochan. The report places the visit within Uganda’s ongoing role in regional peace support operations in Somalia, where troop readiness and base security remain important to mission effectiveness.