The Ugandan government has appointed Lt Colonel Natan Akankunda as the new Commander in charge of the security of the UN headquarters and its staff, located in Halane camp in Mogadishu, Somalia’s capital. He has replaced his predecessor, Colonel Peter Barigye. The new Commander assumed the position in a ceremony held in Mogadishu, where he officially took responsibility as the new Commander of the United Nations Guard Unit (UNGU) and took the oath of office. Deputy UN Special Representative to Somalia, Mr. Raisedon Zenenga, stated that the previous unit played a significant role in maintaining the security of the UN Headquarters and its staff in Mogadishu, allowing UN agencies to effectively carry out their duties. He also noted that there were no security incidents in Halane camp while the previous unit was in charge. This is a testament to their vigilance and collaboration with the AUSSOM operation. AUSSOM Force Commander Lt. General Sam Kavuma praised the previous unit for their diligent service and representation of Uganda. Lt. Colonel Barigye expressed his commitment to fulfilling their duties while in Somalia. The new Commander, Lt. Colonel Akankunda, pledged to continue maintaining the security of UN centers and strengthen cooperation with AUSSOM and UN agencies operating in Somalia.
