The Independent Uganda: You get the Truth we Pay the Price
Entebbe, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has deployed a new Aviation component in Somalia after the end of the one-year deployment period for the third group. These will join the more than 3,000 remaining soldiers serving under the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS).
The new Aviation Component was flagged off by Land Forces Commander, Lt Gen Kayanja Muhanga. General Kayanja cautioned the Aviation crew against indiscipline if they were to succeed in the mission.
“If you want to hit the limits, discipline and regular physical exercises are key. When you maintain discipline, success will come knocking on closed doors,” Lt Gen Muhanga said while flagging off the crew.
In the last 18 months, Uganda has lost over 70 soldiers in the hands of Al-Shabaab terrorists. At least 54 soldiers were killed in one day during the surprise attack at Buulo-Mareer Forward Base on May 26, 2023. The base that was attacked lies along River Shabelle in the Lower Shabelle region which is over 120km from Somalia’s capital Mogadishu.
Lt Gen Muhanga cautioned the soldiers against engaging in unhealthy activities which risk their lives and could also ruin the mission. “You need to keep healthy. Good health is achieved through physical exercise, which is critical for performance in the field,” Lt Gen Muhanga said.
Uganda had over 6,000 soldiers serving under the defunct African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM). However after five permanent members of the UN Security Council withdrew their funding three years ago, AMISOM was changed to ATMIS. These countries which included the US, the UK, Germany, and France said AMISOM had outlived its importance.
However, the African Union (AU) said the Somalia National Army (SNA) including its police were not yet ready to handle their security matters. But with reduced funding, AMISOM forces have gradually been reduced and key installations are now in the hands of SNA.
Maj Gen David Isimbwa, who addressed the Aviation Component urged them to be dedicated to the mission and also wished success in their mission. According to Col Deo Akiiki, the deputy Army Spokesperson, the Fourth Aviation Component will be commanded by Col Solomon Andiandu, assisted by Lt Col Pascal Bariine.
Col Akiiki said the Aviation Component, was first deployed to Somalia on 15th October 2020. “The Aviation Component has been pivotal in supporting peacekeeping efforts by providing airlift services for troop deployments, supply transportation, and casualty evacuations,” Col Akiiki said.
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