KAMPALA – A total of 117 Uganda Police Force officers, comprising 32 women, have commenced a rigorous pre-deployment assessment in preparation for their upcoming assignment with the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).
The evaluation process, designed to test their skills and readiness for the mission, encompasses a range of assessments, including reading comprehension, report writing, driving, and shooting skills. The officers will be deployed to Somalia for a period of one year, where they will serve as part of specialized police teams (SPTs), contributing to peacekeeping and stabilization efforts in the region.
Commissioner Okosh Simon Peter, Deputy Director Operations, emphasized the importance of discipline and integrity, urging the officers to uphold these values throughout the assessment process and during their international peacekeeping roles.
Commissioner of Police Polly Namaye, head of Peace Support Operations for the Uganda Police, expressed confidence in the officers’ abilities, encouraging them to serve as exemplary ambassadors of peace while carrying out their duties in Somalia.
The deployment is led by ACP Emmanuel Lithakong Ntalaba, from African Union Commission – Peace Support Operation Division, ensuring that the mission aligns with AU standards and objectives.
The African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) is set to replace the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) in January 2025. AUSSOM’s mandate includes supporting the Somali Security Forces in implementing the Somalia Security Sector Development Plan, adopted in 2023. The plan proposes a comprehensive approach to defeating al-Shabaab and achieving sustainable peace and security in Somalia.
