The Acting Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (SRCC) in Somalia, Adebayo Kareem, has praised the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) for their unwavering contribution to peace and stability in Somalia.
Kareem made the remarks during his inaugural visit to Sector One headquarters in Mogadishu on Monday.
As the head of the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), Kareem commended Uganda for being the first country to deploy troops under the African Union’s initiative during a time when Somalia was in the grip of a devastating civil war and widespread piracy in the Indian Ocean.
“The role of Uganda, the UPDF, and its people will be remembered in African history for helping Somalia become what we see here today,” he said.
He noted that the UPDF’s strength and operational effectiveness compelled the Al-Shabaab insurgency to shift tactics, resorting to complex asymmetrical warfare after failing to confront Ugandan forces directly.
“Sector One, under UPDF command, is the centre of gravity and pivotal to Somalia’s stability and functioning,” Kareem added, emphasising the strategic importance of Uganda’s continued deployment.
He also expressed deep gratitude to both the UPDF and the Ugandan government for their steadfast commitment to peace and security in Somalia.
Kareem concluded by pledging continued African Union support for civil-military cooperation initiatives aimed at improving the lives of Somali citizens, and reaffirmed the AU’s commitment to ensuring Somalia’s progress is sustained and inclusive.
AUSSOM Force Commander Lt Gen Sam Kavuma hailed the visit as timely and significant, reiterating the strategic value of Sector One.
The sector encompasses the Lower Shabelle region, Somalia’s agricultural heartland and hosts key installations including Villa Somalia (the presidential palace), Parliament, Mogadishu International Airport, the seaport, foreign embassies, and offices of international organizations.
Sector One Commander, Brig Gen Joseph Ssemwanga described Kareem’s visit as “a great morale booster” for the troops.
Also in attendance were Sector Administration Officer Col John Mark Ssemanda, Sector One Operations Officer Col David Watasa, and other key staff officers.
