The Uganda People’s Defence Forces leadership on Wednesday, April 10 flagged-off another battle group to Somalia.
In a function held at Peace Support Operation Training Center, Singo in Nakeseke District, Gen. David Muhoozi, the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) said the 18000 troops under ‘Uganda Battle Group Twenty Seven (XXVII) will be deployed in Somalia with an intent of neutralizing Al-Shabaab threats and help restore peace and stability in the country.
Gen. Muhoozi said Battle Group 27 will be charged with the responsibility of sustaining peace and stability in Somalia under the mandate of the African Union Mission in Somalia.
According to a statement, the 27th Battle Group will be commanded by Col Kosiya Kuteesa who will be deputised by Col Rodgers Okiror.
Gen Muhoozi, according to the statement, told the soldiers that they are headed for tough times in the war-torn country and challenged them to use the skills they have acquired in the last six months of special training.
“The Somalia mission is not a picnic. It is a war situation. It is a do or die mission. Watch each other’s back and ensure you adhere to the principles of war and standing operation procedures all the time,” Gen Muhoozi said.
More than 100 UPDF soldiers have been killed in Somalia by Al-Shabaab militias through surprise attacks, ambushes and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).
The UPDF is in Somalia under African Union Mission to Somalia (AMISOM), a peace keeping mission operated by the AU with the approval of the United Nations.
