Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Battle Group 47, serving under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), has donated assorted food items to vulnerable members of the Somali community near the Ceeljaale Forward Operating Base in the Lower Shabelle region.
Battle Group Commander Colonel Wilson Barigye led the donation as part of the unit’s Civil-Military Cooperation activities. The programme aims to strengthen relations and build trust between the UPDF and the local community.
Colonel Barigye said the initiative reflected the UPDF’s commitment to supporting communities affected by insecurity and food shortages.
“We are not only here to conduct security operations against Al-Shabaab, but also to support our Somali brothers and sisters. Sharing food is a sign of brotherhood and love,” Colonel Barigye said.
Community leaders thanked the UPDF for the support. They said the donation came as many families in the area faced food shortages caused by drought and insecurity.
They pledged to continue working with the UPDF and AUSSOM forces to counter terrorism and promote lasting peace and stability in the region.
UPDF officers and soldiers, local administration officials and community elders attended the activity.
