On May 26, 2023, an attack on the Ugandan People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) base in Somalia resulted in several casualties and significant damage. Following the attack, UPDF Commander Land Forces, Lt Gen Kayanja Muhanga and Somali General, Gen Odowaa Yusuf Rageh – Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) announced a curfew in the area from Afgoye to Barawe in the lower Shabelle region. along with other measures to ensure the safety of civilians and prevent further attacks.
The curfew agreement was proposed on May 29, 2023, at Golweyn Forward Operating Base (FOB), where the two Generals met commanders and troops serving under ATMIS in Sector 1.
The conflict in Somalia has a long and complex history, with various factions and actors vying for control.
It should always be remembered that Kayanja has commanded several UPDF contingents in Somalia, liberating many territories from Al-Shabaab.
Museveni recently dispatched Land Forces commander Lt. Gen. Kayanja Muhanga to Somalia to “ascertain the circumstances under which the attack happened and devise the way forward.”
However, attacks on their base are not uncommon, with previous incidents resulting in casualties and damage.
The recent attack on the UPDF base is a clear indication that the conflict in Somalia is far from over. The details of the attack have not been fully disclosed, but it has been reported that 137 soldiers were killed and equipment was damaged. This attack is a serious blow to troops serving under ATMIS and highlights the need for continued support and action to address the instability in the region.
In response to the attack, local authorities have imposed a curfew in the area around the base. The curfew is aimed at ensuring the safety of civilians and preventing any further attacks. In addition to the curfew, Somali General has stated that they are taking other measures to strengthen security and prevent future attacks.
The UPDF have also responded to the attack, with sources reporting that they are reinforcing their defenses in the region. It remains to be seen if these measures will be enough to prevent further attacks and stabilize the region.
The international community has also responded to the attack, with various actors condemning the violence and offering support. The conflict in Somalia is complex and multi-faceted, and it requires a unified international effort to promote peace and stability in the region.
In conclusion, the recent attack on the UPDF base in Somalia is a tragic reminder of the ongoing conflict and instability in the region. The response of Muhanga, Somali General, and the UPDF highlights the need for continued action and support to address the root causes of the conflict. Only through a unified effort can we hope to achieve lasting peace in Somalia.
