Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Vincent Bamulangaki Ssempijja, has lauded the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces for their contributions in Somalia as part of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS).
He praised them for fostering a conducive environment for Somalia’s socio-economic and political development while embodying the Pan-African ethos.
Ssempijja expressed gratitude for the significant progress made in Somalia, attributing it to the dedication and professionalism of the UPDF. He emphasized the international recognition earned by UPDF due to their discipline and commitment to the mission.
During his visit to the UPDF (Sector One) headquarters in Mogadishu, Ssempijja acknowledged the remarkable growth of Mogadishu city, Seaport, and Aden Abdulle International Airport traffic as indicators of UPDF’s diligence and professionalism.
He also commended President and Commander-in-Chief, H.E. Yoweri Museveni, for his visionary leadership in combating Al-Shabaab, safeguarding Uganda from threats originating in Somalia.
Regarding the ATMIS drawdown, Ssempijja disclosed that the Commander-in-Chief and the High Command are evaluating the next steps, emphasizing the importance of ensuring force protection in the mission area.
Brig Gen Anthony Lukwago Mbuusi, the Sector One Commander, highlighted the achievements of the forces, including establishing a conducive environment for political processes and facilitating the functioning of the Mogadishu government.
He noted significant increases in Airport operations and improvements in infrastructure and social services, attributing these to the persistent security provided by UPDF.
Ssempijja’s visit to Somalia, spanning three days, involved meetings with high-level officials of the Federal Government of Somalia. He was accompanied by Brig Gen Francis Chemo, Uganda’s Defence Advisor to Somalia, Brig Gen David Gonyi, the Chief of Staff-Air Forces, Col Julius Mbaine, Col Moses Wandera, and other officials.
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