Somali President Passes Out Soldiers Trained in Country

Somali soldiers who have been undergoing military training in Bihanga Barracks, Ibanda District, were on Tuesday passed out by their President.

The President of the Transitional Federal Government of Somalia, Sheik Sherif Ahamed, thanked the government of Uganda for giving instructions and training the soldiers.

He said he was grateful for the continued support Uganda was giving Somalia in an effort to gain peace and stability.

Army and Defence spokesperson Felix Kulaigye said at a press conference in Mbarara District that the 627 soldiers were passed out after nine months of training.

They will become part of Somalia national army and join the struggle of fighting insecurity in the lawless country. President Sherif was accompanied by Uganda's Defence Minister Crispus Kiyonga and Commander of Defence Forces Gen. Aronda Nyakairima.

This is the second time Mr Sherif is passing out soldiers trained with the assistance of Uganda. Last year, he passed out 500 soldiers who were also trained from Bihanga Barracks.

President Museveni, in his message to Mr Sherif, delivered by Dr Kiyonga, assured Somalia of the government's commitment towards ensuring stability in the country.

The Sherif's government is fighting radical militants of the al Shaabab group who want to takeover government. Uganda has sent troops to Somalia, to mainly protect the government facilities and offices.

President Sherif paid condolence to Uganda combatants who have died on duty in Somalia.

Source: AllAfrica