UPDF Battle Group 45 Deployed to Somalia with Call for Discipline and Pan-Africanism

SINGO, Uganda – The Deputy Commander of the Land Forces, Major General Francis Takirwa, has officially flagged off Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) troops set for deployment to Somalia, urging them to uphold the highest standards of discipline and embrace Pan-African ideals.

The ceremony for Battle Group 45 (BGXLV), which took place at the International Peace Support Operations Training Centre (IPSO-TC) in Singo, centered on the themes of integrity, professionalism, and patriotism.

Addressing the deploying troops, Maj Gen Takirwa emphasized that discipline and loyalty are the fundamental pillars of the UPDF. He stressed that these core values, combined with a Pan-African spirit, are crucial for the success of the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (ATMIS).
“Represent Uganda with integrity, professionalism, and patriotism,” Maj Gen Takirwa urged the soldiers. He reminded them that these principles have consistently guided the UPDF’s contributions to regional peace and stability.
The Deputy Commander also took the opportunity to commend the instructors and command team at the IPSO-TC for their dedication in preparing the battle group. He highlighted that their rigorous and professional training has been instrumental in building the UPDF’s self-reliance in conducting peace support operations and ensuring they meet international mission standards.
The deployment of Battle Group 45 reaffirms Uganda’s continued commitment to the stabilization and peace-building efforts in Somalia under the African Union mandate.

