Uganda Chief of Defence Forces calls for speedy security sector reforms in Somalia

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Chief of Defence Forces of Uganda Peoples Defence Forces (UPDF), Katumba Wamala who arrived in Mogadishu on Monday for a three-day official visit to Somalia, has urged Somali leaders to fast-track implementation of security sector reforms.

Wamala called for the rebuilding of the national army, to enable them effectively take over the country’s security from African Union troops.

“As you interact politically with whoever will take the chair, this should be among their priority area; to make sure that they address the issue of building their security apparatus,” he told a meeting of senior officials from the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM).

Osman Noor Soubagleh, the AMISOM Force Commander said AMISOM troops continue to jointly conduct offensive and defensive operations aimed at improving the security situation in Somalia.

“The security situation in Mogadishu city has improved significantly, the city being a strategic value for the seat of power, with a high population density, good infrastructure and good for political and economic activities. Therefore the center of gravity plays an important role for the stabilisation of Somalia” Soubagleh said.

Wamala also held a meeting with the Special Representative of the UN Secretary General for Somalia, Michael Keating.

During the meeting, Lydia Wanyoto, AU deputy envoy who also spoke at the meeting AMISOM is doing everything it takes to ensure that we give the support and that our offices are open 24/7 for supporting the troops for which your country contributes.