1st Attack-Free Ramadan Since 2007: Gen Kavuma Urges High Alert as UPDF Marks Eid in Mogadishu

The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) contingent serving under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) marked Eid al-Fitr alongside Somali communities, highlighting strengthened civil-military relations and improved security in the capital.

Speaking at Sector One Headquarters in Mogadishu, the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Ambassador Hadji Ibrahima Diene, praised Ugandan and allied AUSSOM troops for maintaining stability throughout the holy month of Ramadan.

“The peace and stability enjoyed during Ramadan did not come by chance. It was made possible by the sacrifice, commitment and professionalism of our forces on the ground,” Diene said, urging continued discipline and respect for Somali culture as the country advances toward lasting peace.

Uganda’s Deputy Ambassador to Somalia, Maj Gen (Rtd) Nathan Mugisha, described the period as historic, noting that it was the first time since 2007 that Ramadan passed without an Al-Shabaab attack in Mogadishu.

AUSSOM Force Commander Lt Gen Sam Kavuma congratulated Muslim faithful on completing the fast but cautioned troops against complacency. He called for sustained vigilance, coordination, and operational momentum to prevent the extremist group from regrouping.

“We must maintain our vigilance, strengthen coordination and keep up the operational tempo so that Al-Shabaab is denied any chance to reorganise,” Kavuma said.

AUSSOM Force Commander Lt Gen Sam Kavuma

Ugandan Contingent Commander Brig Gen Jackson Kayanja thanked Somali communities for their continued support, while local representative Capt Halima Ahmed Asseir expressed gratitude to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for Uganda’s longstanding role in Somalia’s stabilization and humanitarian efforts.

In a parallel outreach activity, UPDF Battle Group 46 hosted an Eid dinner for residents in Aribiska district, further underscoring community engagement efforts at the end of Ramadan. Commander Col Saul Nabimanya praised the unity displayed by Somali communities and highlighted ongoing joint operations with the Somali National Army against Al-Shabaab.

Lt Muhammad Abdu Rasid BK of the elite Danab forces commended the resilience of local residents and the strong partnership between Somali troops, UPDF forces, and civilians.

The event drew senior UPDF officers, Somali National Army personnel, community elders, international partners, and local residents — a visible demonstration of cooperation between peacekeepers and the population they serve