Tuesday, July 17, 2007
The People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) spokesman, Major Felix Kulayigye said on Tuesday that discussions between the African Union and the United Nations to extend the UPDF mandate in Somalia are at an advanced stage.
The UPDF contingent of 1,500 soldiers was deployed on March 1 and has been trying to keep peace in the war-torn country.
Kulayigye said there is still need for a peacekeeping force to help Somalia gain stability.
He said that since arriving in Mogadishu, UPDF have secured the main airport and sea port and provided security and protection for the transitional federal government.
The troops have also provided security for the president and his palace as well as for the national peace and reconciliation conference in Mogadishu.
Kulayigye said there is optimism that the results of last week’s peace and reconciliation conference will yield positive consultations leading to lasting peace.
He said other countries like Malawi, Burundi, Ghana and Nigeria are still expected to send in their troops but under a new mandate.
The African Union mission needs a total of 8,000 soldiers.
Source: AFP, July 17, 2007