The Uganda Peoples' Defence Forces (UPDF) has renewed its command of the troops serving under the United Nations Guard Unit in Somalia.

The outgoing commander of UNGU VIII, Lt. Col. Peter Magungu handed over to the incoming commander Lt. Col. Peter Okwi Omeja who will head UNGU IX. The handover ceremony took place in Mogadishu.

The handover ceremony was presided over by the Deputy Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General (DSRSG) in Somalia, Her Excellency Anita Kiki Gbeho, and witnessed by Maj. Gen. Francis Takirwa, (DCLF) of the Uganda people's Defence Forces (UPDF).

Ambassador Gbeho commended UNGU VIII for the level of professionalism, sacrifice, steadfastness, courage, and dedication they exhibited in ensuring that the safety and security of the UN staff in Somalia were guaranteed amidst the security challenges and threats from Al Shabaab extremists.

The UN Envoy was happy to note that out of the troops deployed, 93 of them are women, which she said was a very big milestone in recognizing unique gender attributes.

The Deputy Commander of the UPDF Land Forces Maj. Gen. Francis Takirwa commended the commanders and troops for the resilience, commitment, and discipline they exhibited which made command and control easy. He challenged the incoming UNGU IX troops to maintain discipline, patience, and commitment as the only way to attain great heights and good health. 

He cautioned the incoming UNGU IX Commander to work closely with his subordinates and mentor them so that they become better leaders at the end of their tour of duty.

Maj. Gen. Takirwa however advised the troops to plan wisely on how to invest their allowances profitably and save part of it with UPDF Wazalendo Sacco where they are assured of profits from their dividends every year, with less risk.

The UPDF Contingent Commander under the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) Brig. Gen. Peter Gaetano Omola encouraged the UNGU IX Commander to put to heart the orientation they had received and perfect the key areas crucial to the continuity of the mission and mandate of UNGU.

The ceremony was attended by the UN Principle Security Advisor, Joseph Katuramu, and Commanders and Staff Officers of UPDF Contingent serving at ATMIS, UNGU VIII, and UNGU IX among others.