The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), serving under the African Union Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), have scored a major victory against terrorism by eliminating a senior Al-Shabaab commander in the Lower Shabelle region of Somalia.
The militant leader, Osman Hussein Bune Amiir, who was widely recognized as the general commander of Al-Shabaab fighters in Lower Shabelle, was killed in a carefully planned ambush by UPDF troops near Buulomareer on 14 September 2025. His death marks a significant setback for the terror group, which has long used the region as one of its strongholds.
Sector One Commander, Brig Gen Joseph Musoke Ssemwanga, praised the courage and discipline of the soldiers stationed at Buulo Mareer Forward Operating Base (FOB). He described the mission as “a decisive blow against Al-Shabaab,” noting that the elimination of such a high-ranking commander would disrupt the group’s operations in the region.
During the successful operation, the UPDF troops recovered a pistol with three loaded magazines, a porch, binoculars, and two mobile phones, along with other valuable items. These recoveries are expected to aid in further intelligence gathering and weaken the group’s ability to plan and coordinate attacks.
Maj David Ogweng, the commander of Buulo Mareer FOB, expressed his gratitude to Brig Gen Ssemwanga for his constant support and leadership. He credited the general’s guidance as a key factor in enabling the troops to accomplish their mission. Maj Ogweng also reaffirmed his soldiers’ commitment to ensuring peace, stability, and security in Somalia, stressing that they would not relent in their duty.
As part of his field visit, Brig Gen Ssemwanga inspected other forward operating bases in Quoryoley and Goloweyn to check on operational readiness and the welfare of the troops. He was accompanied by Lt Col Justus Magyembe, the Contingent Logistics and Engineering Commander, along with commanders in charge of Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Women’s Affairs.
Brig Gen Ssemwanga reassured the soldiers that the UPDF leadership, AUSSOM, and international partners remain united in their mission to dismantle Al-Shabaab networks. He emphasized that such victories bring Somalia closer to lasting peace and stability, and commended the troops for their sacrifice and dedication.
This latest success by the UPDF in Somalia is not only a triumph for Uganda but also a sign of hope for the Somali people, who continue to look forward to a peaceful and secure future free from the threat of terrorism.
