Deputy CDF Commends UPDF Contingent in Somalia for Fighting Al-Shabaab

By Kampala Post Reporter

UPDF Deputy Chief of Defence Forces Lt Gen Wilson Mbasu Mbadi has applauded UPDF Forces in Somalia for their tireless efforts in dealing with Al-Shabaab terrorists and deterring them from destabilizing peace in the region.

“The strategic mission of Al-Shabaab is to spread their extremist ideology in the entire region," Gen Mbadi reechoed. He added that the relative peace in Somalia and the entire region can be attributed to the tireless efforts of AMISOM and other International partners who are striving to see that Somalia is rid of all remnants of Al-Shabaab terrorists.

According to a UPDF statement, the Deputy CDF made the remarks recently while touring Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) that include Sea Port of Barawe, Beledamin and Golowenyi in lower Shabelle. “The Deputy Chief of Defence Forces by UPDF establishment is the Inspector General and the purpose of his tour was therefore to assess the progress of self-sustainment projects undertaken by troop contributing countries to support their forces to the Mission,” the statement by UPDF Spokesperson Brig Richard Karemire indicates.

The projects include office equipment, catering facilities, communication equipment, laundry, sanitation facilities and tentage among others. Gen Mbadi informed officers and men that back home UPDF leadership is doing what it can to improve the welfare of troops in the Mission area. He noted that in order to enhance the welfare of troops, Army Leadership has embarked on Salary enhancement, mobility, accommodation, clothing and has come up with a project profile to construct 30,000 housing units and maintenance of what is available.

He added that once the housing units are complete, every soldier will be accommodated in the barracks and that will translate into effective command and control.