At least 40 Ugandan police officers who were deployed under the now-defunct African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), which has transitioned into the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), have completed their tour of duty and returned home.
The officers, comprising Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) and Police Constables (PCs), were received at the Naguru Police Headquarters by the Director of Operations Services, Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIGP) Frank Mwesigwa.
In his post-deployment debrief, AIGP Mwesigwa commended the officers for their professionalism, discipline, and dedication during their time in Somalia.
He praised them for upholding the integrity of the Uganda Police Force and avoiding actions that could have tarnished its image.
“I commend you for your dedicated service and commitment during your tour of duty. Your contribution to international peacekeeping has positively reflected on the Uganda Police Force and the nation at large,” Mwesigwa said.
Commissioner of Police in charge of Peace Support Operations, Polly Namaye, urged the returnees to use the experience they gained during the mission to better serve Ugandans.
The officers shared insights into operating in a conflict zone and expressed gratitude to the force for the support they received throughout their deployment.
“It was a great experience to be on a mission. We have learned a lot, we have acquired mission experience, we have identified operational challenges, and we now understand what it means to be on mission,” some of the officers said.
Others noted that the deployment had positively impacted both their professional growth and personal well-being.
They also appreciated AIGP Mwesigwa for visiting them in the field on at least two occasions during their mission in Somalia. The welcome meeting was also attended by the Deputy Director of Operations, CP Simon Okoshi.
AIGP Mwesigwa concluded by noting that preparations are underway for the next cohort of officers who will be deployed to continue Uganda’s commitment under AUSSOM.