Tuesday May 27, 2025
Mogadishu (HOL) — The United Nations has donated two armored infantry fighting vehicles to Ugandan troops serving in Somalia, significantly bolstering their ability to respond to crises and protect UN personnel.
The vehicles were officially handed over on May 22, 2025, to the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) serving under the United Nations Guard Unit XI (UNGU XI), which is responsible for protecting UN staff and facilities in Somalia’s capital and surrounding areas.
UN Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) chief transport officer Manon Richard presided over the handover in Mogadishu and praised the professionalism and discipline of the UPDF contingent.
“We appreciate the unit’s excellent training and collaboration. These vehicles will enhance mobility and operational efficiency, especially for the Emergency Response Team during crises,” she said.
The IFVs, designed for rapid deployment in high-risk areas, are expected to strengthen the UPDF’s capacity to respond swiftly to security threats and humanitarian emergencies.
Lt. Col. Peter Ruyogoza Barigye, the UNGU XI commander, described the donation as a critical upgrade to the unit’s ability to fulfill its mandate.
“This significant support from the UN greatly improves our operational effectiveness,” he said. “These vehicles will help ensure the safety of both our troops and the broader UN community.”
Capt. Eric Mugabe Mugwani, who leads the Emergency Response Team, emphasized the strategic impact of the new vehicles.
“These IFVs will strengthen our emergency response capabilities,” he said. “We are grateful for the continued support.”
Senior UPDF commanders and UNGU XI staff attended the ceremony, which highlighted the growing operational focus on mobility and protection amid Somalia’s volatile security landscape.
Uganda has deployed troops to Somalia under the UN Guard Unit since 2014, following a request to reinforce UN security operations in the country. UNGU XI represents the eleventh rotation of Ugandan forces under this mandate.
