Mogadishu, Somalia– The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Contingent under the United Nations Guard Unit Eleven (UNGU-XI) has celebrated the promotion of 190 Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) during a ceremony held at the Contingent headquarters in Mogadishu.
Presiding over the event, Contingent Commander Lt Col Peter Ruyogoza Barigye congratulated the newly promoted officers, commending their dedication, discipline, and commitment to duty. “Your promotion is a testament to your hard work and leadership,” Lt Col Barigye said. “I urge you to continue serving as role models and mentors to your fellow soldiers.”
He encouraged the officers to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, loyalty, and patriotism as they take on greater responsibilities within the United Nations mission. “Leadership and expertise are critical in peacekeeping. Your conduct must reflect the core values of both the UPDF and the United Nations; integrity, discipline, and respect for diversity,” he added.
The United Nations Principal Security Adviser, Mr Joseph Katuramu, echoed the call for responsibility, reminding the officers that elevation in rank comes with heightened expectations. “Leadership demands accountability, maturity, and continuous improvement. Avoid complacency because others are watching and rising,” Katuramu said.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the AUSSOM Sector One Commander, Lt Col Vincent Mutebi Masembe, the Sector One Anti-Aircraft Asset Commander also extended congratulations and offered words of guidance. “Promotion is a well-thought-out and deliberate process. But it also signals a new phase of responsibility. Stay disciplined and focused because there are more ranks ahead,” he said.
The senior-most NCO, Warrant Officer Class I Labu Alex, promoted from WOII, thanked the UPDF leadership for the recognition of his service. He encouraged his peers to remain patient, disciplined, and committed in their roles. “I will use my new rank to support my juniors and superiors in every way possible,” WO1 Labu said.
In total, the 190 promotions included: 3 Warrant Officers Class I, 4 Warrant Officers Class II, 15 Staff Sergeants, 25 Sergeants, 57 Corporals, and 86 Lance Corporals.
The event was attended by senior officers including Deputy Commander Maj Jacob Gowan Kaburika, company commanders, department heads, and other UPDF personnel deployed under the UN mission.
