UPDF conducts leadership training to enhance operational effectiveness in Somalia

The UPDF Battle Group 45 has conducted a leadership training session for commanders and key staff at its headquarters in Embresso, Barawe, Somalia.

The training was aimed at strengthening command capacity and enhancing operational effectiveness under the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).

It brought together Forward Operating Base (FOB) commanders, their staff, and Battle Group key staff serving in the Barawe sector.

Battle Group 45 Commander, Colonel Justus Musenene, underscored the importance of operating within the mission mandate to effectively achieve operational objectives.

“Every commander must understand and operate within the mission mandate. This is the foundation for achieving our operational objectives while maintaining the confidence of the population we are here to protect,” Col Musenene said.

He reminded the commanders of their responsibility to protect civilians and maintain the prevailing security and stability in the Barawe sub-sector, noting that effective leadership remains central to mission success.

Col Musenene also encouraged officers to embrace continuous professional development to enhance their competence and improve operational performance.

“Leadership is a continuous learning process. Keep developing your knowledge and skills because a better leader builds a stronger and more effective force,” he noted.

The Commanding Officer of the 145 Infantry Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Geoffrey Ochan, urged officers to prioritise their health and personal well-being, emphasising that good health is essential for operational readiness and effective service delivery.

The training covered a wide range of professional subjects, including command and control, military discipline, decision-making, the fundamentals of officership.

It also covered food safety and personal hygiene, and the responsible use of social media during military operations.

Trainees welcomed the initiative, saying it had enhanced their leadership knowledge and operational awareness.

“The training has equipped us with practical leadership skills and refreshed our understanding of command responsibilities. We look forward to more sessions of this nature.”