UPDF applauded for securing Somalia airspace

Summary:

• The UPDF claims success in securing Somalia’s airspace against Al-Shabaab attacks on airports, facilitating the country’s air transport growth. Brig Gen Lukwago highlights UPDF’s achievements in fostering a stable environment for political processes.

The UPDF proudly asserts its successful safeguarding of Somalia’s airspace against Al-Shabaab attacks on airports. Brig Gen Anthony Mbuusi Lukwago, UPDF’s sector one commander in Somalia, highlighted Uganda’s military resilience as crucial for the flourishing air transport in Somalia today. He emphasized UPDF’s achievements in creating a conducive atmosphere for political processes and ensuring the functionality of the Mogadishu government.

Brig Gen Lukwago stated that the annual increase in airport operations now accommodates over 8,533 international flights, 18,166 domestic flights, and 1,686 mission flights. He attributed improvements in infrastructure and social services to UPDF’s persistent provision of security. The briefing occurred during a familiarization visit by the Minister for Defence and Veteran Affairs, Vincent Ssempijja.

Ssempijja commended UPDF soldiers serving in the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) for contributing to a conducive environment for Somalia’s socio-economic and political transformation, showcasing the Pan-African spirit. He acknowledged the Pan-African spirit’s positive outcomes in Somalia, thanking UPDF for its perseverance and impactful role in changing the country.

UPDF’s presence in Somalia began in 2007 under the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), initially funded by the UN Security Council. Despite some UN Security Council member countries suggesting UPDF and AMISOM had outlived their purpose in Somalia, the mission transformed into ATMIS, focusing on training Somali forces for the country’s security.

During his visit to UPDF’s Sector One, Ssempijja praised the rapid growth of Mogadishu City, Seaport, and Aden Abdulle International Airport traffic, attributing it to UPDF’s hard work and professionalism. He also commended President Yoweri Museveni, the Commander-in-Chief, for his visionary leadership in the fight against Al-Shabaab in Somalia, contributing to Uganda’s protection from attacks.