Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces Peacekeepers Honoured with UN Medals in Somalia
Peacekeepers from the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) serving under United Nations Guard Unit XI (UNGU XI) have been awarded United Nations medals in recognition of their distinguished service in Somalia.
The medal ceremony, held at the UNGU premises in Mogadishu, brought together senior representatives from the United Nations, the African Union mission and the Government of Uganda. The event was presided over by James Swan, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Somalia.
In his remarks, Swan commended the Ugandan contingent for its discipline, professionalism and unwavering dedication to duty, noting that their role in securing UN facilities is critical to the successful implementation of the UN mandate in Somalia.
“The decoration you receive today reflects your commitment to security, and because you are here, we can do our work,” he said, also recognizing the important contribution of female peacekeepers in advancing peace operations.
The Force Commander of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), Lieutenant General Sam Kavuma, praised the troops for their exemplary service, emphasizing that the medals are reserved for exceptional performance.
“Medals are not given to everyone in service but are awarded for exemplary and exceptional performance. They are being awarded to you for the great job done,” he said.
UNGU XI Commander Lieutenant Colonel Peter Ruyogoza Barigye expressed appreciation to the UN and partner organizations for the opportunity granted to the UPDF to participate in peace support operations in Somalia. He lauded the resilience and commitment demonstrated by the troops throughout their deployment.
The United Nations Guard Unit is tasked with securing UN compounds, personnel and critical infrastructure, providing a safe environment for humanitarian, political and development activities in Somalia’s complex security landscape.
Among the dignitaries present were Uganda’s Defence Attaché Brigadier General Francis Chemengich Chemo; AUSSOM Sector One Commander Brigadier General Jackson Kayanja; AUSSOM Police Commissioner AIGP Hillary Sao Kanu; Principal Security Advisor Joseph Katuramu; Chief PREMSEC Pathou Gangale; and community representative Mama Halima.
The ceremony underscored Uganda’s continued contribution to regional peacekeeping efforts and its longstanding role in stabilisation missions in Somalia.