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Lt. Gen. Samuel Okiding arrives in Mogadishu for high-level talks aimed at strengthening cooperation with Somali forces and enhancing joint operations against Al-Shabaab
The Deputy Chief of Defence Forces from Uganda, Lieutenant General Samuel Okiding, arrived in Mogadishu, Somalia, on Saturday for an official visit. His trip is focused on strengthening military cooperation between the two countries and working together more closely in the fight against terrorism, especially against the Al-Shabaab group.
Lt. Gen. Okiding was warmly welcomed at Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu by Major General Sahal Abdullahi Omar, who is the Commander of the Somali Land Forces. Several other top Somali military officers were also present to receive him.
This visit highlights the growing relationship between the Somali and Ugandan armies. It shows both countries’ commitment to supporting each other in dealing with security challenges, especially when it comes to tackling Al-Shabaab. Al-Shabaab is a dangerous militant group that has been responsible for many attacks in Somalia and other countries. It has been labeled a terrorist organization not only by Somalia and Uganda, but also by the international community.
During his time in Somalia, Lt. Gen. Okiding is expected to hold several important meetings with senior Somali military leaders. He will also meet with officials from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia, commonly known as ATMIS. Uganda has a large number of soldiers in this peacekeeping mission, which aims to help stabilize Somalia and support its government in maintaining peace and order.
Ugandan troops have been serving in Somalia since 2007. In fact, Uganda has the largest number of soldiers in ATMIS, making it a key player in regional peacekeeping efforts. These troops work side by side with Somali forces and other African Union soldiers to protect communities and push back against threats from groups like Al-Shabaab.
One of the main goals of Lt. Gen. Okiding’s visit is to discuss how to improve coordination between the different military forces operating in Somalia. He and his counterparts will be talking about joint operations, strategies to defeat Al-Shabaab, and ways to speed up the return of peace and stability to areas that have suffered from violence and conflict.
His visit comes at a time when both Uganda and Somalia are making efforts to boost their defense ties and work more closely together. By sharing knowledge, planning joint operations, and helping each other with training and equipment, both countries hope to become more effective in fighting terrorism and protecting their people.
The presence of Ugandan troops in Somalia has played a major role in securing key areas, including Mogadishu. These peacekeepers have helped Somali forces reclaim territory that was once controlled by Al-Shabaab, allowing the Somali government to extend its reach and provide basic services to more people.
Uganda’s commitment to peace in Somalia has been consistent for over 17 years. The visit by Lt. Gen. Okiding shows that the country remains dedicated to supporting Somalia not just with troops, but also through military cooperation and joint planning.
In summary, the visit by Uganda’s Deputy Chief of Defence Forces to Somalia is an important step in the continued partnership between the two nations. It’s a chance to strengthen teamwork, share experiences, and plan the next steps in the fight against terrorism. With the help of countries like Uganda, Somalia is hopeful that lasting peace and stability can be achieved in the near future.