Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Katumba Wamala warned against laxity and corruption by UPDF soldiers on peacekeeping mission in Somalia.
On Friday 6th November, 2015, Uganda flagged off a new batch of soldiers in the UPDF to take over from the colleagues who conclude the one-year duty in Somalia.
Working under AMISOM mandate, the Uganda Battle Group 17 (Ugabag 17) is expected to be disciplined as their role will greatly determine the overall African Union Mission in Somalia.
Their role will primarily be centered on conducting security operations and maintaining the supply routes ensuring they remain open and free of barriers by the militants.
Ugabag 17, which is the biggest battle group ever to deploy in Somalia with 2,777 soldiers, was in South Sudan until early this year. The battle group is commanded by Col Bob Ogik.
Early Incidences of Misconduct
Gen Katumba Wamala has warned that no UPDF soldier should be found selling of fuel and food meant for military operations.
A number of UPDF soldiers have been on trial before the UPDF court martial for selling soldiers’ food and fuel.
On September 1, 2015, the Al Shabaab attacked a UPDF base in Janaale in an ambush that claimed 19 UPDF soldiers. President Yoweri Museveni blamed the casualties on laxity of the soldiers.
All AMISOM troops fighting in Somalia are expected to adhere to their SOPs (standard operational procedures), so as to prevent attacks on their bases by the militants and to realize the success of the peace mission in Somalia.
