Fifteen personnel from the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), serving under United Nations Guard Unit Eleven (UNGU XI), have completed an intensive five-day course in Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) at the Joint Military Training Centre in Mogadishu.
The training, facilitated by the United Nations Support Office, was designed to strengthen the unit’s ability to collect, analyze, and utilize intelligence more effectively in support of ongoing peacekeeping operations.
Speaking at the closing ceremony on behalf of the Commanding Officer, Major Jacob Gowan Kaburika, Deputy Commander of UNGU XI, praised the participants’ dedication and acknowledged the UN’s continued support.
“As you move forward, you will play a vital role in shaping UNGU’s operations and strategic decisions,” he said. “Your expertise will help us stay ahead of emerging threats, monitor enemy movements, and protect both our mandate and personnel.”
Captain Joseph Maada Edube, Military Information Officer, also commended the trainees’ performance and urged them to remain vigilant. “Terrorist threats, cyber challenges, and evolving security dynamics require a proactive and adaptive approach,” he noted. “To stay effective, you must embrace technology, foster partnerships, and commit to continuous learning.”
He emphasized that intelligence goes beyond data collection—it’s about transforming information into actionable insights that directly support mission objectives.
Private Chekwemboi Viola, one of the course participants, described the training as a valuable experience. “I’ve gained knowledge that will enable me to contribute more meaningfully to the mission’s success through improved intelligence practices,” she said.
The successful completion of the ISR course highlights the UPDF’s ongoing commitment to professional development and international peacekeeping. It also underscores the importance of global cooperation in enhancing operational readiness and promoting long-term stability in Somalia.
