Uganda has augmented its military presence in AMISOM by deploying an air force, as East Africa continues to battle Al Shabab rebels in Somalia.
“It is a great boost to the AMISOM Force which has been operating without an air force,” Uganda army commander, Lt General Aronda Nyakairima said.
He requested the air force officers to maintain high levels of discipline while in Somalia.
A contingent of 28 senior air force officers has been sent to Somali capital Mogadishu, where the air force will be based.
AMISOM, the African Union Mission in Somalia, is a regional peace keeping force meant to stabilise security in the war ravaged Somalia.
Uganda air force commander, Lt General Jim Wesigire said several African Union aircraft had been dispatched to assist the war effort in Somalia ahead of elections later this month.
Aronda Nyakairima who officially flagged off the contingent Monday afternoon said, “Ugandan forces in Somalia have done a great job in returning peace in that country.
“The air force team will specifically be mandated to boost the air force and other sectors. This is a great opportunity for Uganda to further help Somalia as it prepares for the August 20 polls”.
Uganda, with about 5,000 troops, was the first country to send troops to Somalia under the auspices of the AU. It currently has the biggest force in the Horn of Africa country.
Burundi and more recently Kenya have also deployed troops in Somalia.
