(18-05-23) MOGADISHU – Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Battle Group 34 has concluded its rigorous pre-deployment training, conducted by the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) and the African Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) on home turf, as announced on Wednesday. This training prepares the group for their imminent deployment to Somalia, in an ongoing effort to maintain peace and stability in the conflict-ridden region.
Uganda stands as one of the prominent Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs) to ATMIS, a testament to its commitment to fostering peace within the African continent. The extensive training program, mandatory for all military and police units, is designed to equip the peacekeepers with the skills and knowledge necessary to tackle the challenging peacekeeping assignment ahead.
This development arrives at a critical time as ATMIS prepares to withdraw 2,000 soldiers from Somalia by next month June 30. This strategic drawdown is part of a broader transition plan, aiming to hand over the reins of national security to the Somali Security Forces once the withdrawal process concludes.
Despite the impending troop reduction, ATMIS continues its relentless pursuit against al-Shabaab, a terror group that launches almost daily attacks against government forces and civilians. Through both joint targeted and routine operations, ATMIS is dedicated to degrading al-Shabaab’s strength and influence.
