Troops of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) serving under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), alongside the Somalia National Army (SNA), have captured Mubarak town following a joint offensive targeting an Al-Shabaab stronghold.
The operation, code-named “Rolling Thunder,” was launched on February 28, 2026, under the command of Sector One Commander Brigadier General Jackson Kayanja. It aimed to secure key supply routes, disrupt Al-Shabaab activities, and restore stability in the area.
Mubarak had reportedly been used by the insurgents to disrupt logistics and threaten civilians, making it a strategic objective for the joint forces.
Battle Group 44 Commander and overall Operation Commander, Colonel Akena, commended the troops for their bravery and professionalism.
He said the successful capture of the town is part of sustained efforts to degrade Al-Shabaab’s operational capacity and restore peace and security in the region.
“We have secured the town and surrounding areas successfully,” Col Akena said, praising both UPDF and SNA personnel for their discipline and courage.
He described the capture of Mubarak as a significant milestone in ongoing stabilisation efforts aimed at restoring normalcy, facilitating the safe return of displaced persons, and enabling local governance structures to function effectively.
According to Col Akena, several Al-Shabaab fighters were killed, others captured, firearms and ammunition recovered, and improvised explosive device (IED) manufacturing sites destroyed during the operation.
The UPDF reiterated its commitment to supporting peace enforcement and stabilisation efforts in Somalia, pledging to continue working closely with the SNA and Somali authorities to promote lasting peace and development.
