The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces), deployed in Somalia under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission (AUSSOM), have held a joint community engagement with Somali security forces and local residents in Mubarak, Lower Shabelle, focusing on security consolidation and development priorities.
The meeting brought together officers from the UPDF Battle Group 44, led by Commander Colonel Owiny Akena, alongside representatives of the Somali National Army and local elders. The dialogue centered on strengthening cooperation between security forces and civilians as a foundation for sustaining peace in recently stabilized areas such as Mubarak and Darusalam.
Colonel Owiny emphasized that long-term stability cannot be achieved through military efforts alone. He urged the community to actively support peacebuilding initiatives, particularly by guiding young people away from activities that could threaten security. He also outlined ongoing infrastructure works, including efforts to unblock irrigation canals and rehabilitate key roads linking Mubarak to Awdhegle, noting that such projects are essential for restoring livelihoods and improving mobility.
Somali National Army representatives commended the UPDF contingent for its role in improving security conditions and restoring public confidence in the region. They noted that the presence of joint forces has contributed significantly to reducing insecurity and enabling humanitarian and stabilization activities to take place.
Community elders welcomed the continued engagement, praising the role of UPDF troops in supporting the liberation and stabilization of Mubarak. They highlighted the benefits of recent humanitarian interventions such as medical outreach services and food assistance, while calling for expanded support to reach more vulnerable families.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment by all parties to strengthen coordination between security forces and civilians. Both military and community leaders agreed that sustained dialogue and development efforts remain key to consolidating peace and preventing a resurgence of instability in Lower Shabelle.