UN Security, UPDF Commanders Meet in Mogadishu to Boost Mission Safety in Somalia

MOGADISHU, Somalia | April 4, 2025:- Key security officials from the United Nations and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) convened at the UN Headquarters in Mogadishu for a strategic security briefing aimed at bolstering safety measures and strengthening collaboration within the mission area.

The high-level meeting was chaired by Mr. Joseph Katuramu, the UN Principal Security Adviser (PSA) in Somalia, and brought together a broad range of stakeholders including senior officials from the UN Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS) and the UPDF UN Guard Unit XI (UNGU XI), led by Commander Lt Col Peter Ruyogoza Barigye.

Mr Katuramu emphasized the need for unity and vigilance among security stakeholders, particularly peacekeepers and the UN security apparatus. “As leaders, we must continually manage, supervise, and oversee our forces to ensure that the security of all posts is maintained. This is vital for ensuring the safety of those we support,” he said.

He further noted that sustained coordination, joint planning, and effective information-sharing among peacekeeping forces and UN security teams are pivotal to enhancing mission effectiveness.

The UN Deputy Security Adviser, Mr John Douglas, praised the professionalism and alertness of the UPDF troops serving under the UN Guard Unit, noting their consistent readiness. “Each time I pass by, I see the forces ready and on alert,” he remarked, encouraging the personnel to maintain their high standards.

He acknowledged the effective cooperation between different teams in safeguarding UN personnel, assets, and facilities.

UNGU XI Commander Lt Col Peter Ruyogoza Barigye described the meeting as a critical initiative for enhancing mission security. He pledged continued cooperation with all stakeholders to ensure the protection of the UN compound and its operations.

“We remain fully committed to cooperating with all stakeholders to ensure the protection of the UN compound and its activities,” Col. Barigye said.

The PSA’s induction meeting marks a renewed commitment to strengthening mission security in Somalia, reflecting a strategic shift toward joint action and proactive risk management.

Other senior UN security officials in attendance included Deputy PSA Mr Mark Gdela, Chief Operations/SOC Ms Magretha Strydom, Chief PREMSEC Mr Pathou Gangale, Deputy Chief PREMSEC Mr Levan Beselia, the Deputy UNGU Commander, Major Jacob Gowan Kaburika, various departmental heads, and officers responsible for security operations.