Ugandan Soldiers’ Sacrifice in Somalia

MOGADISHU, Somalia – In the relentless heart of conflict, the air in Lower Shabelle’s Sabiid-Anole was heavy with anticipation. A three-day joint operation spearheaded by the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), alongside the Somali National Army (SNA) and the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), pushed fiercely against Al-Shabaab militants. Yet, this bravado came at a steep price: the loss of seven courageous Ugandan soldiers.

Confirming the tragic news, Brigadier General Felix Kulayigye, the Defence and UPDF Spokesperson, spoke somberly during a Sunday briefing. “It is a painful but heroic sacrifice,” he acknowledged, each word wrapped in a palpable sense of valor and loss.

Operation “Silent Storm” was no ordinary mission. This meticulously planned assault succeeded in neutralizing 30 Al-Shabaab fighters, recovering significant weapons caches, and dismantling a series of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) hidden throughout the region. But at what cost? The terrain, a web of hidden tunnels, became a treacherous battlefield where close-quarter combat unfolded over tense moments.

“I commend the bravery of our gallant AUSSOM-UPDF troops and the Somali National Army,” reflected Lt Gen Sam Kavuma, the AUSSOM Force Commander. His voice carried the firmness of determination: “This operation is part of our continued effort to degrade Al-Shabaab and fully implement the Somali Transition Plan.” The plan, moving towards the vision where Somali forces take full security responsibilities, resonates with hope—a beacon against the storm clouds of terrorism.

Sabiid-Anole, once an artery for logistical planning and a refuge for Al-Shabaab, was described by Sector One Commander, Brig Gen Joseph Musoke Ssemwanga, as crucial. “Since March, this town had become a strategic location for the terrorists,” he explained. It was here they plotted attacks, stashed weapons, and placed illegal checkpoints to squeeze civilians dry.

Following the frenetic clearing of the town, AUSSOM and SNA units shifted their focus. Consolidating control, they delved into follow-up operations within Afgooye District, all the while vigilant for remaining insurgent pockets. This dedication raises a poignant question: In such battles of attrition, how much does each victory cost?

As we reflect on these sacrifices, the remains of the seven fallen soldiers are prepared for repatriation to Uganda. They will return home draped in respect, their service honored with full military ceremonial rites.

Uganda’s role in Somalia underscores a commitment beginning in 2007. Within the African Union framework, the nation’s contributions remain pivotal. Al-Shabaab, with its allegiance to Al-Qaeda, thrives on chaos. Yet, despite sustained offensives, the path to peace is strewn with challenges.

The year 2022 marked a narrative shift as AMISOM transitioned to what is now AUSSOM. This strategic pivot places a stronger emphasis on supporting Somalia’s security transition. The ultimate goal? A gradual reduction of foreign troops, allowing Somalia’s forces to stand resiliently on their own.

In considering these events, I am reminded of a poignant quote by Winston Churchill: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.”

As we ponder the cycle of sacrifice and resolve, the bravery of these soldiers sends ripples that transcend borders, echoing a universal resilience and unyielding hope.