The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen David Muhoozi has implored Uganda Battle Group 26 (UGBAG XXVI) to ensure vigilance and maintain discipline during their mission in Somalia.
Gen Muhoozi made the remarks at Peace Support Operations and Training Centre (PSO-TC) in Singo, Nakaseke District as he flagged off UGABAG XXVI.
The group is under the command of Col Toffa Magino and will be deployed in Somalia with an intent of neutralizing Al-Shabaab threats and help restore peace and stability in in the country.
“Fighting in Somalia is not a picnic. Dose and Al-Shabaab will finish you,” Gen Muhoozi cautioned adding that “Fighting Al-Shabaab is a manageable mission if soldiers work hard, keep to what they were trained on, and sticking to the rules of engagement (ROE).
The CDF further urged soldiers to know their responsibility whether in a section, unit or formation, and put their background in minds. He reminded them to always protect each other’s back using the attained pre-mission training and Operations experience.
The Chief of Staff Land Forces Brig Leopold Kyanda on behalf of the Commander Land Forces Maj Gen Peter Elwelu commended Battle Group for enduring the long attained pre-mission training.
He noted that the force is well prepared and ready for deployment for AMISOM.
The Commandant of the Peace Support and Training Centre (PSO-TC) Singo Brig Jackson Bakasumba lauded the UPDF leadership for her support towards stabilizing Somalia in the spirit of Pan-Africanism by deploying the Battle Group.
Brig Bakasumba observed that soldiers are well prepared and as it has been in the past and will work hard to keeping Uganda’s flag shining.
The flag off function was attended by Development Partners, Community leaders, PSO-TC staff among other invited guests.