Top AU force commander visits UPDF soldiers on the frontlines in Somalia

BARAWE, Somalia - The Commander of the Uganda AMISOM contingent, Brig. Gen. Richard Otto has completed a routine visit to the frontline to assess the progress of military operations against Al-Shabaab.

Brig. Otto, in the company of senior commanders and staff officers, visited the various AMISOM Forward Operating Bases under the control of the Uganda AMISOM contingent.

The AMISOM troops from Uganda are deployed in Banadir, Lower Shabelle, and Middle Juba, where they undertake operations to secure main supply routes, protect civilians, and key installations.

Brig. Otto met with commanders and troops of the various battle groups in the FOBs of Barawe, Baledogole Military Airport, Ceeljaale, and Arbiska.

“I am pleased with the combat readiness and effectiveness. We continue to degrade the enemy’s capabilities to fight,” said Brig. Otto.

He saluted the troops for thwarting the terrorist attempts to plant Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) along the main supply routes within the sector and asked the troops to be ready to support the Somali national security forces, SSF, to ensure a peaceful and secured forthcoming electoral process for Somalia.

Brig. Otto also lauded the officers, men, and women for adhering to established COVID-19 public health prevention measures. He urged the troops to continue to foster good relations with local host communities.