Summary:
Speaking on behalf of the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (SRCC), Ambassador Mohamed El-Amine Souef, AUSSOM Force Commander Lt Gen Sam Kavuma emphasized the significance of gender equality.
SOMALIA: Uganda Peoples’ Defense Forces female peacekeepers serving under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) and the United Nations Guard Unit (UNGU) in Somalia joined their counterparts on Saturday to celebrate International Women’s Day.
This year’s theme, “Rights, Equality, Empowerment: We Can Accelerate Action,” underscored the importance of women’s full participation in fostering lasting peace in Somalia and across Africa.
Speaking on behalf of the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (SRCC), Ambassador Mohamed El-Amine Souef, AUSSOM Force Commander Lt Gen Sam Kavuma emphasized the significance of gender equality. He noted that women are rejecting discrimination, insecurity, and inequality and reaffirmed AUSSOM’s commitment to gender inclusivity.
“Gender equality enhances our mission’s effectiveness, improves access to local communities, and strengthens human rights and civilian protection,” Lt Gen Kavuma stated. “We continue to support this cause, even in peacekeeping operations, by implementing United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325, which recognizes women’s critical role in peace and security.”
AUSSOM Police Commissioner AIGP Hillary Sao Kanu echoed the call for accelerated action, stressing that progress can only happen when women’s rights, equality, and empowerment are prioritized.
“The demonstrations today highlight the everyday contributions of women, supported by courageous men in uniform who create a conducive environment for their work,” she said. Commissioner Kanu also commended the women in the mission area, including those operating tanks and armored vehicles.
The celebration was attended by senior AUSSOM Force Headquarters officers, including Deputy Sector One Commander Col Christopher Columbus Tumwine, Sector One Administration Officer Col John Mark Ssemanda, UNGU XI Commanding Officer Lt Col Peter Barigye, and other AUSSOM and UNGU XI personnel.
