UPDF appoints Brig Kabango for its new Amisom commander in Somalia

The Uganda People’s Defence Forces [UPDF] Army has Monday appointed Brig Michael Kabango, the 5th Division Commander in Northern Uganda as the new AMISOM Uganda forces commander in Somalia.

According to Daily Monitor Brig Kabango will now replace Brig Paul Lokech who took over from Muhanga Kayanja last year.

Brig Kabango has formerly served as the defence attaché to Somalia prior to his appointment as the 5th division commander.

The UPDF Spokesperson Brig Richard Karemire confirmed the development to Daily Monitor in a telephone interview Tuesday.

He said Brig Kabango was appointed as UPDF contingent commander in Somalia this month.

“He is a very professional soldier, very solid and a pan-Africanist,” Brig Karemire said.

Brig Lokech was praised for his tireless efforts and contribution to peace and stability in war-torn Somalia.

“Lokech has steadily contributed to peace and stability in Somalia,” he said.
Brig Karemire said that new contingent commander will take over office “soon”.

When contacted in a telephone interview Tuesday, Brig Kabango said he was already at Entebbe Military Airport waiting to board a plane to Somalia.

“I have a new role now as the UPDF contingent commander in Somalia. I am at the Airport already waiting to travel to Somalia,” he said.
UPDF remains the largest contingent in African Mission In Somalia [AMISOM] with more than 6,000 troops.