Vincent Bamulangaki Ssempijja, the Defence Minister of Uganda, has expressed admiration for the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) for their contributions to peacekeeping efforts in Somalia as part of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS).
In a statement released by the army, Minister Ssempijja commended the UPDF for fostering a conducive environment for Somalia’s socio-economic and political advancement, all while embodying the Pan-African spirit.
“The Pan-African spirit that led us to Somalia has yielded remarkable outcomes. I commend you for your perseverance and the positive transformation you have brought to Somalia. The discipline and professionalism exhibited by the UPDF have earned international acclaim,” stated Minister Ssempijja.
During his visit to the UPDF (Sector One) headquarters in Mogadishu, Minister Ssempijja highlighted the substantial progress witnessed in Mogadishu city, including the growth of the seaport and the increased traffic at Aden Abdulle International Airport, attributing these developments to the hard work and professionalism of the UPDF.
Minister Ssempijja also took the opportunity to acknowledge President Yoweri Museveni for his visionary leadership and strategic direction in combating al-Shabaab, which has effectively safeguarded Uganda from potential attacks.
Addressing the issue of the ATMIS drawdown, Minister Ssempijja mentioned that President Museveni and the High Command of the UPDF are evaluating the next steps, emphasizing the importance of ensuring adequate force protection in the mission area.
Brigadier General Anthony Lukwago Mbuusi, the Sector One commander, provided an overview of the achievements of the UPDF forces in Somalia. He highlighted their role in establishing a secure environment conducive to political processes and governance in Mogadishu.
“The significant increase in airport operations, accommodating a large number of international, domestic, and mission flights, reflects the improved infrastructure and social services resulting from our consistent provision of security,” noted Brigadier General Mbuusi.
During his three-day visit to Somalia, Minister Ssempijja held meetings with senior officials of the Federal Government of Somalia, further strengthening diplomatic ties between the two nations.
Accompanying Minister Ssempijja were Brigadier General Francis Chemo, Uganda’s Defence Advisor to Somalia, Brigadier General David Gonyi, the Chief of Staff-Air Forces, as well as Colonels Julius Mbaine and Moses Wandera, among others.
