Somalia: UN security officials and UNGU commanders meet to improve mission safety

On April 4, security stakeholders in Somalia met for a high-level briefing to improve collaboration and safety measures in the mission area.

Joseph Katuramu, the United Nations Principal Security Adviser (PSA), presided over the meeting, which took place at the UN headquarters in Mogadishu.

It brought together key officials from the UN Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS), including Deputy Security Adviser John Douglas, UNSOS’s Chief Security Officer, and Lt Col Peter Ruyogoza Barigye, Commander of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces’ (UPDF) UN Guard Unit XI.

Katuramu emphasized the importance of cooperation 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 emphasized the importance of fostering a collaborative environment in which information sharing and joint planning are essential for effective mission security.

Deputy Security Adviser John Douglas praised the UPDF troops’ professionalism and alertness while serving with the UN Guard Unit, highlighting 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.

John recognized the effective collaboration among various teams in protecting UN personnel, assets, and facilities.

Lt Col Barigye stated that the meeting is a critical initiative for improving mission security. He pledged to continue working with all stakeholders to protect the UN compound and its operations.

The PSA’s induction meeting represents a renewed commitment to strengthening mission security in Somalia, as well as a strategic shift toward collaborative action and proactive risk management.

Other UN officials who attended the meeting included Deputy PSA Mark Gdela and Chief Operations/SOC Magretha Strydom.