The Commander of the United Nations Guard Unit XI (UNGU-XI), Lieutenant Colonel Peter Ruyogoza Barigye, has urged female Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) personnel deployed in Somalia to maintain vigilance and stay committed to their mission under the United Nations Guard Unit XI .
During a routine engagement at the UNGU-XI headquarters, Lt Col Barigye commended the discipline, resilience, and unwavering dedication of the female officers, stressing their pivotal role in the success of the operation. “You must remain alert and ensure that our security is not compromised,” he said. “Your presence and performance are central to the success of this mission.”
He encouraged cohesion and mutual support among personnel, particularly for those operating in high-risk zones.
Lt Col Barigye further applauded the recent progress made by AUSSOM and Somali National Army (SNA) forces in Lower Shabelle. A joint operation, codenamed Operation Silent Storm, successfully dislodged Al-Shabaab militants from the Sabiid and Anole regions. “These grounds were previously used by Al-Shabaab to launch attacks on UN and AUSSOM bases,” he noted. “Their liberation marks a significant step forward, but we must stay alert to any potential threats.”
Additional officers echoed similar sentiments during the meeting. Major Jacob Gowan Kaburika, UNGU-XI Administrative Officer, encouraged troops to maintain regular communication with their families. “Staying connected with your loved ones boosts morale and provides emotional support,” he said. “It’s an important part of your well-being while on deployment.”
Major Teopista Opar Giramia, Female Engagement and Gender Officer, underscored the importance of health and situational awareness. “Your physical and mental fitness directly affects your effectiveness,” she told the troops. “We operate in a dynamic environment. Take your well-being seriously and remain alert at all times.”
The engagement was attended by officers and female combatants serving under UNGU-XI in Somalia.
