UPDF’s 27 BATTLE GROUP WITHDRAWALS FROM SOMALIA.

Описание: The African Union (AU) has awarded service medalsto a contingent of troops from the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), in recognition of their role in furthering the mandate of the African Union Mission in Somalia.
The troops from UPDF Battle Group XXVII (UGABAG XXII) will soon rotate out of the mission having served for more than one year, due to disruptions brought about by the global covid-19 pandemic.
Deployed in April 2019, the outgoing battle group has been conducting anti-
insurgent operations against Al-Shabaab in the Lower Shabelle region that include areas of Arbiska, Albao, Baledogle, Afgooye, Lantabur, seaport, the parliament, the State House and the main AMISOM basecamp.
The group will be replaced by Battle Group XXX (UGABAG XXX), which will assume security responsibility of the same areas.
“We are proud to preside over the medal ceremony to honour our heroes, brothers and sisters of the UPDF contingent of Battle Group 27 who have completed their tour of duty and therefore are being decorated today with the AU peace medal for

their exemplary work that they have done,” said AMISOM Deputy AMISOM Force
Commander in charge of Logistics and Support, Maj. Gen. George Owinow while
presiding over the function.
Maj. Gen. Owinow lauded the battle group which was instrumental in the capture
from the Al-Shabaab, the four bridge towns of Sabiid-Anole, Bariire, Awdheegle and
Ceel Salini, for making a “solid contribution” not only to peace in Somalia but the
entire region.
“The journey that we started to secure this country will go on to the end until this
country is secured; because if Somalia is not stable and is not secured, Ethiopia,
Kenya, Uganda and the region is not stable,” Maj. Gen. Owinow.
Maj. Gen. Owinow noted that the UPDF has been the cornerstone of AMISOM
operations, being the first country to deploy in the mission, owing to the lead role
that Uganda has played in contributing to regional and continental peace and
security.
On his part, the Deputy Commander of Ugandan troops in Somalia, Col. John
Winston Mugarura praised Battle Group XXVII for their professionalism, discipline
and commitment to the AMISOM mandate and fostering good relations with the
local communities.
“You have not left Somalia the same, your contribution to the peace process in this
country has not only made a positive mark in the hearts and minds of the Somali
people, but also impacted positively on regional peace and security,” Col. Mugarura
said.
The Commander of Battle Group XXVII, Col. Sam Kosiya Kutesa said the troops who
had stayed in Somalia for one year and five months, had shown a deep sense of
commitment and sacrifice, while operating in tough conditions on the frontline.
He lauded their efforts in conducting a number of Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC)
activities aimed at winning the hearts and minds of the local communities in their
areas of responsibility and encouraging restoration of peace.
A number of UPDF soldiers who were decorated with the medal expressed joy for
being recognized and for successfully completing their tour of duty.
“Given the efforts that I have put in, to achieve this medal, it is evident that I have
really contributed to the peace process, stability and economic development within
Somalia,” Lt. Col. Fred Kakaire said.
Captain Selina Awino said, “Award of this medal at the end of the mission makes me
feel recognized and appreciated, that after being here for all this time, my efforts are
being recognized and appreciated.”