By The African Union has decorated troops of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) serving under Battle Group XLI with medals and certificates in recognition of their exemplary service during their recently concluded peacekeeping tour under the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).
The ceremony also marked the official handover of responsibilities to the incoming Battle Group XLV, signaling a transition in UPDF operations within Sector One.
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Representing the Force Commander, Lt Gen Sam Kavuma, the Sector One Commander Brig Gen Joseph Musoke Ssemwanga commended the outgoing commander, Col Michael Hyeroba, and his troops for their dedication during both offensive and defensive operations that significantly weakened Al-Shabaab activities in the Barawe and Baledamin sub-sectors.
Brig Gen Ssemwanga highlighted key accomplishments of Battle Group XLI, including the securing of Barawe Airport, restricting Al-Shabaab’s mobility, supporting and mentoring the Somali National Army, and conducting key leaders’ engagements that contributed to improved security in the region.
He expressed confidence in Col Justus Musenene, the commander of Battle Group XLV, urging him to maintain high morale, trust his team, and stay adaptable as he assumes command.
Col Hyeroba thanked UPDF leadership for entrusting him with the mission and credited Brig Gen Ssemwanga’s guidance for the successes achieved.
Col Musenene affirmed that his contingent was fully prepared to build on these gains, saying the pre-mission training equipped them to take on their new responsibilities effectively.
The decorated soldiers represented the larger Battle Group, whose colleagues had been honoured earlier for their sacrifice and service in Somalia.
The ceremony was attended by senior AUSSOM and UPDF officials, including Brig Gen Jackson Kayanja, the incoming contingent commander; Col Francis Aragamoi, the Sector One Deputy Commander; Col John Mark Ssemanda, the Contingent Administration Officer; Col Sam Kosia Kuteesa, Commander of Battle Group XLII; as well as departmental heads, asset commanders, officers and militants under Sector One.
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