MOGADISHU, April 17 (Xinhua) -- The African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) on Tuesday lauded Ugandan soldiers for ensuring a safer and stable Somalia.
AMISOM Deputy Force Commander in charge of support and logistics Salvator Harushimana praised the troops who have completed their tour of duty for their diligence.
"During their stay, they performed their duties with dedication and a high level of professionalism," Harushimana said in a statement issued in Mogadishu. "They did not only represent Uganda well but also made the African Continent proud."
The soldiers are part of battle group 21 of the Uganda People's Defense Force who were tasked with securing Mogadishu and neighboring regions.
Harushimana said the battle group participated in many operations, ranging from conducting combat operations against al-Shabab to securing the Main Supply Routes, to conducting regular patrols and escorting vehicles carrying humanitarian relief aid.
Speaking at the function, Uganda's Deputy Ambassador to Somalia Nathan Mugisha called for more investment in social amenities critical for the survival of the populations to help supplement efforts being made by the military to stabilize the country.
Mugisha also noted that there is need to enhance governance, justice and rule of law and humanitarian support in liberated areas to enable residents lead a normal life.
He commended the Somali National Army for remaining resolute in the face of multiple challenges and urged the international community to aid the force in its efforts to secure the country.
AMISOM's Battle Group Commander Chris Ogwal appealed for more investment in quick impact projects, noting that the lack of basic health services presents the biggest challenge to improving living standards of the Somali population.