UN Resident Coordinator Praises UPDF for Regional Peacekeeping Efforts

The outgoing United Nations Resident Coordinator in Uganda, Susan Ngongi Namondo, has commended the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) for their significant contributions to peace missions across the region.

Susan Ngongi Namondo -UN Resident Co-ordinator
Susan Ngongi Namondo -UN Resident Co-ordinator

During a meeting with Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Namondo emphasized the UPDF’s reliability in promoting regional stability, particularly in conflict-prone areas such as Somalia and South Sudan. “The UPDF has been a force to rely on in promoting peace and security,” she stated, acknowledging their role in various peacekeeping operations.

 UN Resident Coordinator Susan Ngongi Namondo (Left) & Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba (Right)

Susan Namondo highlighted that Uganda is currently the second-largest contributor to peacekeeping operations worldwide, with over 6,162 troops deployed in missions like the African Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS). This involvement has been crucial in countering threats from extremist groups such as Al-Shabaab and supporting the Somali government’s stabilization efforts.As she prepares to leave her post, Namondo urged the UPDF to maintain its commitment to peacekeeping and regional cooperation. Her remarks underscore the importance of military collaboration in fostering lasting peace and security across East Africa.