Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces troops serving under United Nations Guard Unit 12 have completed induction and security training in Mogadishu aimed at enhancing their preparedness for mission duties in Somalia.
The training, supported by the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS), covered key areas including access control procedures, cultural awareness, improvised explosive device awareness, camp security, and the United Nations mandate, among other modules designed to prepare personnel for various responsibilities in the mission area.

The Commanding Officer of UNGU XII, Lieutenant Colonel Nathan Akankunda, emphasised the importance of the training and urged the troops to apply the knowledge and skills acquired in the field.
“I urge you to take such courses seriously and put into practice the knowledge and skills attained in the operational environment,” said Lt Col Nathan Akankunda,
Lt Col Akankunda commended the facilitators, organizers, and the UNSOS leadership for their teamwork and commitment to equipping personnel with relevant operational knowledge.

The project instructor, Mr Kevin Macias, said the training had placed the participants in a better position to execute their duties effectively and contribute to a safe and secure environment.
Project Manager Mr David Romolerovx and UN Security Officer Ms Maria Ana Dabasdal thanked the UNGU leadership and participants for the discipline, commitment, and professionalism they demonstrated throughout the training.

Speaking on behalf of the trainees, Capt Tonny Onen and Sgt Kalambizi Geoffrey called on their colleagues to continue upholding the values of integrity, discipline, professionalism, respect for diversity, and teamwork, which they said are vital in military service and decision-making.
Among those who attended the course closure were the Deputy Commander of UNGU XII, Maj Ismail Kisitu Senoga, officers commanding, heads of departments, and other partners.

