Somali government authorities have commended Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) peacekeepers for spearheading infrastructure projects and restoring security across the Barawe Sub-sector.
The Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation of South West State of Somalia, H.E. Iman Ali Abdi, delivered the commendation during a courtesy visit to Battle Group 45 Headquarters at Embresso on Monday afternoon.
Minister Iman praised the Ugandan contingent serving under the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) for demonstrating active Pan-African solidarity through civic action.
“Thank you for the support you have given to our local community. We are all Africans, and you have truly demonstrated the spirit of Pan-Africanism. Let’s keep it up,” Minister Iman said.
The transport minister pledged that the South West State administration will maintain local infrastructure assets and sustain joint stabilization drives.
Barawe District Commissioner Mr Abdullahi Umar Mohamed attributed the sub-sector's security gains directly to proactive tactical sweeps mounted by the UPDF.
In response, Battle Group 45 Commander Colonel Dr Justus Musenene stressed that continuous collaboration with Somali leaders strengthens troop morale across the ranks.
Col Musenene highlighted the historic fraternity connecting Uganda and Somalia.
“Working with you here is like working with people back home in Uganda. Ever since we arrived, you have been good to us,” he said.
The Battle Group commander reaffirmed his contingent's commitment to degrading Al-Shabaab networks and securing long-term stability.
Somali National Army 66 Brigade Commander Colonel Abdurahman Elmi noted that joint operations with Ugandan soldiers have curbed insurgent activity across the Lower Shabelle region.
South West State Minister of Education H.E. Mohamed Osman Haji, regional legislators, and senior Barawe municipal leaders joined the high-level delegation to the base.
