SOMALIA– Female troops of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) serving under the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) have been urged to uphold discipline, professionalism, and resilience in their military service.
During a visit to UPDF female personnel deployed in Somalia, the Acting Director for Women Affairs in the UPDF, Colonel Lydia Nandudu, underscored the vital role that professionalism plays in shaping perceptions of women in the armed forces. “We, the female combatants, must present a positive image of women in the army so we can encourage the recruitment of more females into the UPDF,” Col Nandudu stated.
She advised the women to prioritise personal development and professional growth in accordance with UPDF regulations, which require a minimum of four years of service before starting families. “Focus on education, military courses, and embracing technology. Prepare yourself fully before starting a family,” she said.
Col Nandudu commended the troops for their dedication and tenacity in challenging environments, noting that their conduct defies outdated societal stereotypes regarding women’s roles and abilities.
Colonel Christine Nekesa, Head of Women Affairs in the UPDF Air Force, called for unity and mutual support among female personnel. She pointed out the significant rise in the number of female soldiers in Somalia, which has grown from just three in Battle Group III to more than 500 currently serving across various roles, including commanders, staff officers, and pilots.
Lieutenant Colonel Carol Basaliza, Head of Women Affairs in the UPDF Land Force, urged the troops to prioritise their health, maintain discipline, and adhere strictly to standard operating procedures during their deployment.
The Directorate of Women Affairs remains central in championing gender equity within the UPDF. Its efforts include the development of gender-responsive policies, ensuring the welfare of female soldiers on deployment, and advancing more women into leadership roles.
Also present at the meeting were Major Teopista Opar, Female Engagement Team Officer of UNGU XI; Captain Rebecca Cherotich, Legal Officer at the Directorate of Women Affairs; Lieutenant Treecia Nuwemugabe, Gender Officer in AUSSOM Sector One; as well as several junior officers and female troops stationed at Sector One Headquarters in Mogadishu.
