AMISOM awarded medals to the contingent of Uganda People’s Defense Force (UPDF) soldiers for their outstanding role in securing strategic towns and major supply routes in Somalia.
The Ugandan troops are deployed in Sector 1, which comprises the regions of Banadir, and Lower Shabelle.
The troops, who completed their one-year tour of duty in battling the Al-Qaeda affiliated extremist fighters, were honoured for their selfless service and hard work in safeguarding Mogadishu International Airport zone, areas neighbouring Mogadishu and major supply routes connecting the capital city and other nearby towns.
Lt. Gen. Tigabu Yilma Wondimhunegn commended the Ugandan battlegroup 24 for their industrious approach in averting Al-Shabaab from conducting complex attacks in the Mogadishu International Airport area and securing districts of Banadir, Afgooye, and parts of Waleweyn, at a medal awards ceremony that was held in Mogadishu on April 15.
Some of the major triumphs registered by the outgoing contingent are; the capturing of the strategic town of Sabiid Anole, in Lower Shabelle, from the control of Al-Shabaab and seizing and deactivating a large number of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in its area of operation.
Lt. Gen. Tigabu noted that residents of Mogadishu and neighbouring areas were able to go about their business, due to the security provided by the outgoing battle group. He added that he expected the same to the incoming contingent.
