Uganda’s UPDF peacekeepers serving under the United Nations Guard Unit XI (UNGU XI) in Somalia have been recognized for their outstanding service and bravery in maintaining peace and stability in the region.
The medals were presented by James Swan, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General in Somalia, during a ceremony at the UNGU premises in Mogadishu.
As can be recalled, Uganda was among the first countries to deploy troops to the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) in March 2007, when the country landed its contingent in Mogadishu amidst a raging insurgency by Al-Shabaab militants.
Since then, Uganda has remained a key partner in the region, working tirelessly to stabilize Somalia and support its people.
The peacekeepers who received medals were commended for their professionalism, dedication, and commitment to safeguarding UN facilities and enabling the organization to carry out its mandate.
James Swan, in an address praised the Ugandan contingent for their exceptional performance, highlighting the crucial role they have played in supporting peace and stability in Somalia.
“The decoration you receive today reflects your commitment to security, and because you are here, we can do our work,” James Swan said. He also acknowledged the contribution of female peacekeepers, praising their resilience and dedication to global peace and security.
Lieutenant General Sam Kavuma, the Force Commander of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), commended the recipients for their exemplary performance during their tour of duty.
“Medals are not given to everyone in service but are awarded for exceptional and exemplary performance. They are being awarded to you for the great job done,” he said.
The award of medals to Ugandan peacekeepers in Somalia is a significant recognition of the country’s contributions to global peace and security.
It highlights Uganda’s commitment to international peacekeeping efforts and showcases the bravery and dedication of its troops.
For Uganda, this award boosts national pride by recognizing the sacrifices and efforts of Ugandan gallant sons and daughters serving abroad.
It also validates the contributions by acknowledging Uganda’s role in supporting peace and stability in Somalia and beyond. Above all it encourages continued involvement and reinforces Uganda’s commitment to international peacekeeping and global security efforts.
Background.
The African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) was a multinational force formed by the African Union to support the Transitional Federal Government (TFG) of Somalia.
Deployed in late 2006, AMISOM’s primary objective was to maintain stability and security in the country following the ouster of the Islamic Courts Union (ICU) by Ethiopian troops.
AMISOM’s mandate, approved by the UN Security Council on 21 February 2007, was to support the TFG, implement a national security plan, and train TFG security forces.
The mission later shifted focus to countering Al-Shabaab militants, an outfit designated by the US and its allies as a terrorist organization, becoming one of the deadliest peacekeeping operations in recent history.
Uganda was among the first countries to deploy troops to AMISOM, landing in Mogadishu in March 2007.
The Ugandan contingent, alongside Burundian forces, played a crucial role in forcing Al-Shabaab out of Mogadishu in 2010-2011. Ethiopia joined AMISOM in 2014, and together, they helped recapture key towns from Al-Shabaab.
AMISOM’s mandate was extended several times until its replacement by the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) on April 1, 2022.
The mission’s legacy is marked by significant contributions to Somalia’s stability, paving the way for the country’s security forces to take charge.
About Medals.
In the military, medals are awards given to recognize and honor outstanding service, bravery or achievements. They are like a big thumps-up for a job well done. Medals can be awarded for various reasons, such as bravery in combat, that is, for showing courage in the face of danger.
It is also given for distinguished service, for exceptional leadership or service. For peacekeeping missions that is for contributions to international peace and security, like the Ugandan peace keepers in Somalia.
It can also be awarded for honoring dedicated years of service. Medals are a way to show appreciation for a soldier’s hard work and dedication and they are often worn with pride on uniforms.
