The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) contingent serving under the United Nations Guard Unit (UNGU) in Somalia has conducted a formal change of command ceremony, with Lt Col Peter Barigye handing over leadership of UNGU XI to incoming commander Lt Col Nathan Akankunda of UNGU XII.

The handover took place at the UN compound in Mogadishu and was presided over by Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General Raisedon Zenenga, who conveyed the United Nations’ appreciation to the outgoing contingent.

“Members of UNGU XI have honoured the United Nations, their country Uganda and the UPDF with their dedication, discipline and professionalism,” Zenenga said.

“Your effective safeguarding of United Nations personnel, facilities and assets in Mogadishu has enabled the UN family to deliver on its mandate.”

He highlighted the contingent’s strong performance, noting the absence of significant security incidents within the camp as evidence of their vigilance and effective collaboration with counterparts under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).

AUSSOM Force Commander Lt Gen Sam Kavuma also commended the outgoing team.

“You can walk with your heads held high because you did it. You have finished your mission with dignity and honour, and you have represented Uganda well,” Kavuma told Lt Col Barigye and his troops.

In his farewell remarks, Lt Col Barigye thanked the UPDF leadership for entrusting him with the mission and confirmed that UNGU XI had executed its responsibilities with full commitment and professionalism.

The incoming commander, Lt Col Akankunda, congratulated UNGU XI on a job well done and pledged to build on their achievements.

“I will diligently execute the UNGU mandate and I call for continued support, coordination and cooperation from the Force Commander and the wider UN fraternity in Somalia during my tenure,” Akankunda said.

The ceremony was attended by senior and junior officers from AUSSOM Sector One, UNGU XI, and UNGU XII.

The UPDF’s UNGU contingent provides close protection and static security for UN personnel, facilities, and assets in Mogadishu, contributing to the UN’s mandate in one of the world’s most challenging operational environments.

The smooth transition underscores the UPDF’s continued professionalism and reliability in international peacekeeping and stabilisation missions.