
Uganda will deploy a new battalion of troops to Somalia in the coming weeks under the African Union mission.
The troops will support ongoing operations against Al-Shabaab militants, joining Ugandan forces already stationed in southern Somalia, active in the country since 2007.
Deputy Land Forces Commander Lt. Gen. Francis Takirwa briefed the battalion in Gulu, urging discipline, patriotism, unity, and careful conduct during the upcoming deployment.
He also advised soldiers to avoid lavish lifestyles, focus on long-term planning, including post-retirement investments, while maintaining the UPDF’s reputation abroad.
Uganda remains one of the largest troop contributors to Somalia, alongside Kenya and Ethiopia, helping combat Al-Shabaab and assist the Somali government’s security efforts.