Seven Ugandan Peacekeepers Lose Lives in Somalia’s Al-Shabaab Offensive

A Moment of Sacrifice: The Ongoing Struggle in Somalia

Mogadishu (AX) — Recent reports revealed a somber event that cuts to the heart of the ongoing conflict in Somalia. Seven brave Ugandan peacekeepers, operating under the African Union Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), lost their lives during a concerted military operation aimed at reclaiming a pivotal town from the clutches of Al-Shabaab militants. This tragic yet heroic sacrifice serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by those who dedicate their lives to peacekeeping.

The soldiers were engaged in “Operation Silent Storm,” a three-day initiative that saw collaborative efforts between AUSSOM and the Somali National Army (SNA) in the Sabiid-Canoole area, roughly 90 kilometers southwest of Mogadishu. This operation was not just another military exercise; it was a calculated effort to disrupt the logistical operations of a group notorious for its extremism.

Uganda’s Ministry of Defence spokesperson, Maj. Gen. Felix Kulayigye, characterized the incident as a “painful but heroic sacrifice.” In his statement, he expressed profound sorrow but also a sense of pride in the bravery of these soldiers. “Unfortunately, we lost seven soldiers during the battle,” he confirmed. Their loss echoes in the hearts of their families and embodies the uncertainties faced by peacekeepers in volatile regions.

Despite the tragic loss, the operation achieved notable success, resulting in the elimination of at least 30 Al-Shabaab fighters and the seizure of substantial arms caches. Military officials also reported the dismantling of extensive underground tunnels used by militants to store explosives and facilitate attacks—a critical blow to the group’s operational capacity.

AUSSOM’s Force Commander, Lt. Gen. Sam Kavuma, articulated the importance of this mission in weakening Al-Shabaab’s operational abilities. “This mission was critical in degrading Al-Shabaab’s ability to launch suicide bombings and move weapons across the region,” he stated. “It is a significant step toward implementing the Somali Transition Plan.” It raises an undeniable question: what does it truly mean to sacrifice one’s life for a cause? For these soldiers, the answer lies in their unwavering commitment to peace.

Brig. Gen. Joseph Musoke Ssemwanga, Uganda’s Sector One Commander, further emphasized the strategic importance of Sabiid-Canoole. Describing it as a logistics and planning hub for Al-Shabaab, he revealed that since March, militants had leveraged the area to orchestrate vehicle-borne improvised explosive attacks and extort innocent civilians through illegal checkpoints. As we read this, it may prompt each of us to reflect: how much courage does it require to confront such a relentless enemy?

In light of this operation, follow-up initiatives are already underway in the Afgooye district, designed to eliminate remaining pockets of militants. This persistence demonstrates a broader commitment to destabilizing extremist control, a goal that requires enormous resources and, tragically, lives.

In an emotionally charged moment, the bodies of the fallen peacekeepers will be returned to Uganda, where they will receive full military honors—a fitting tribute to those who paid the ultimate price in pursuit of peace and security. As one of the largest troop-contributing nations under the African Union mandate, Uganda has been at the forefront of Somalia’s stabilization efforts since 2007. Their ongoing commitment raises another critical question: how do nations prioritize the lives of their people in the shadow of such conflict?

Currently, AUSSOM deploys 11,146 troops in Somalia. Yet, in April, its leadership reported an urgent need for approximately 8,000 additional personnel to meet the demands of an increasingly active militant landscape. This situation emphasizes a universal truth: peace often exacts a heavy toll, and success can come at a steep price.

As we grapple with these events, it is crucial to remember that behind every statistic lies a human story—of families, communities, and nations striving for stability in a world often marked by chaos. The bravery and sacrifice of soldiers should inspire us to think critically about the nature of conflict and the enduring quest for peace.

Edited By Ali Musa
Axdale Times International–Monitoring