Peacekeepers from the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces serving under the United Nations Guard Unit XI (UNGU XI) have been awarded United Nations medals in recognition of their distinguished service in securing UN premises and supporting peace and stability efforts in Somalia.
The medal ceremony took place at the UNGU premises in Mogadishu and was presided over by the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Somalia, James Swan. The event brought together senior military and civilian officials from the United Nations, the African Union mission, and the Government of Uganda.
In his address, Swan praised the Ugandan contingent for their discipline, professionalism, and steadfast commitment to duty, noting that their role in protecting UN facilities is vital to the successful implementation of the UN mandate in Somalia. “The decoration you receive today reflects your commitment to security, and because you are here, we can do our work,” he said, highlighting the notable contributions of female peacekeepers in advancing peace operations.
Also speaking at the ceremony, the Force Commander of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), Lieutenant General Sam Kavuma, commended the recipients for their exceptional performance. “Medals are not given to everyone in service but are awarded for exemplary and exceptional performance. They are being awarded to you for the great job done,” he said, emphasizing the high standards required to earn such recognition.
The UNGU XI Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Peter Ruyogoza Barigye, expressed gratitude to the UN and partner organisations for enabling the UPDF to participate in peace support operations in Somalia, commending the troops’ resilience and unwavering commitment throughout their deployment.
The UN Guard Unit plays a crucial role in securing UN compounds, personnel, and critical infrastructure, enabling humanitarian, political, and development operations to continue in a challenging security environment.
Dignitaries at the ceremony included Defence Attaché at the Ugandan Embassy, Brigadier General Francis Chemengich Chemo; AUSSOM Sector One Commander, Brigadier General Jackson Kayanja; AUSSOM Police Commissioner AIGP Hillary Sao Kanu; Principal Security Advisor Joseph Katuramu; Chief PREMSEC Pathou Gangale; and community representative Mama Halima.