The Commander of the Ugandan Land Forces, General Kayanja Muhanga, recently visited Somalia to assess the situation on the frontlines, particularly in the Sabiib and Caanoole areas of the Lower Shabelle region.
This visit comes as part of ongoing efforts to combat Al-Shabaab (AS) and to support the Somali National Army in their operations.
During his visit, General Muhanga met with Ugandan military officials who are part of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).
They discussed the ongoing conflict with AS and reviewed the successes achieved in capturing the Sabiib and Caanoole regions, highlighting the strategic importance of these areas in the broader fight against terrorism.
The Ugandan forces have faced significant challenges, with seven soldiers reported killed in a recent intense battle near Sabiib and Caanoole. These losses is said to underscore the dangers faced by troops engaged in combat alongside the Somali military, as they work to reclaim territory from AS.
General Muhanga praised the courage and dedication of the Ugandan troops, emphasizing the need to bolster efforts aimed at stabilizing the regions that have been liberated from AS. His remarks is said to reflect a commitment to ensuring that the hard-won gains are maintained and that security is restored to affected communities.
Uganda has been actively involved in military operations in Somalia since 2007, playing a crucial role in the fight against AS. The ongoing collaboration with Somali forces is said to highlights the importance of regional partnerships in addressing security challenges in the Horn of Africa.