Kampala | A total of 117 Uganda Police Force officers have begun pre-deployment assessment tests in preparation for the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia.
Of the total, 32 are female officers.
The reading comprehension, report writing, driving, and shooting skills assessments are currently underway.
These officers are being evaluated for individual mission service and will also be assigned to specialized police teams (SPTs) for a one-year deployment.
According to a UPF publication, Uganda Police officers will contribute to Somalia’s peacekeeping and stabilization efforts.
Deputy Director Operations, Commissioner Okosh Simon Peter, emphasized the importance of discipline and integrity, urging officers to uphold these values throughout the assessment process and their international peacekeeping duties.
Commissioner of Police Polly Namaye, head of Peace Support Operations for the Uganda Police, expressed confidence in the officers’ abilities.
CP Namaye encouraged the officers to be exemplary ambassadors of peace while serving in Somalia.
The team is led by ACP Emmanuel Lithakong Ntalaba from the African Union Commission’s Peace Support Operation Division.
The ongoing assessment ensures that the deployment complies with AU standards and objectives.