Africa-Press – Uganda. The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) contingent serving under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) has undergone a change of command, with Brigadier General Jackson Kayanja taking over leadership as Contingent Commander from Brigadier General Joseph Ssemwanga Musoke, who has completed his tour of duty.
The handover and takeover ceremony, held on December 19, was presided over by the UPDF Land Forces Commander, Lieutenant General Kayanja Muhanga, who reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to regional peace and security, describing it as a core pillar of the country’s Pan-African responsibility.
“Uganda is a country that believes in Pan-Africanism. We cannot sit back when our neighbours are suffering, and that is why we are here,” Lt Gen Muhanga said, underscoring Kampala’s continued support to peacekeeping efforts beyond its borders.
Lt Gen Muhanga commended the outgoing Contingent Commander, Brig Gen Ssemwanga Musoke, for his leadership and contribution to stability in Somalia, noting that his tenure was marked by significant operational gains.
He particularly cited Operation Silent Storm, which targeted Al-Shabaab elements in the Lower Shabelle region, as a key milestone in weakening the militant group’s capacity.
Turning to the incoming commander, Lt Gen Muhanga urged Brig Gen Kayanja to consolidate the gains made by his predecessor, with emphasis on maintaining security in Mogadishu while upholding professionalism, discipline and commitment to duty among UPDF troops.
In his farewell remarks, Brig Gen Ssemwanga expressed gratitude to the UPDF leadership, fellow commanders and mission partners for the support accorded to him throughout his deployment.
He credited teamwork and cooperation with other AUSSOM forces for the successes registered during his command.
Brig Gen Kayanja, in his acceptance remarks, pledged to build on the foundation laid by his predecessor, assuring the leadership that professionalism, discipline and mission focus would remain central to his command.
The ceremony was attended by the AUSSOM Force Commander, Lt Gen Sam Kavuma, Defence Attaché Brig Gen Francis Chemo, Sector One Deputy Commander Col Francis Aragamoi, Director of Intelligence Services–Land Forces Col Albert Kashakamba, Battle Group Commanders, as well as other senior and junior officers.
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