MOGADISHU, SOMALIA – Female soldiers of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) serving under the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) have been encouraged to set clear personal and professional goals to enhance their careers and livelihoods.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The call was made on May 31 during a dedicated engagement with female personnel in Mogadishu, organized as part of ongoing efforts by the Uganda Contingent to empower women in uniform, improve their welfare, and strengthen their role in peace support operations.
Addressing the soldiers, the Uganda Contingent Administration Officer, Colonel Hamza Kasajja, underscored the importance of self-development and financial discipline alongside their military duties.
“Have a clear aspiration and look for ways of improving yourself. Many people benefit from farming and business. Save some money and invest so that you improve your livelihood,” Col. Kasajja said.
He further urged the female soldiers to prioritize education and embrace technology, noting that both the Government of Uganda and the UPDF continue to expand opportunities for women in leadership and participation in peace support missions.
The Contingent Political Commissar, Major Jackson Mazingo, praised the female soldiers for their discipline and professionalism in the mission area, emphasizing that their contribution remains critical to the success of operations in Somalia.
“Your efforts are important to the success of this mission. Continue maintaining discipline and working hard for the restoration of peace and stability in Somalia,” Maj. Mazingo said.
Meanwhile, the Contingent Gender Officer, Lieutenant Collins Awino, stressed the importance of professionalism, integrity, and a strong work ethic, noting that these values are key to career growth and effectiveness in military service.
According to a release from the Ministry of Defence and Veterans’ Affairs, the engagement forms part of a broader strategy to uplift female personnel and ensure they play an integral role in peace support operations under AUSSOM.
The current African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) officially began operations on January 1, 2025, succeeding the previous ATMIS mandate.
Uganda has maintained a continuous troop presence in Somalia since first deploying troops in March 2007 under the African Union Mission to Somalia (AMISOM), demonstrating a longstanding commitment to restoring peace and stability in the Country.
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