Somalia assumes command of Mogadishu stadium from UPDF/AMISOM

Hiiraan Online
Tuesday August 28, 2018

Mogadishu (HOL) - The Ugandan contingent of AMISOM has officially vacated the Mogadishu stadium on Tuesday after an elaborate handing over ceremony that was attended by President Farmajo.

The stadium has been in the hands of the UPDF since their units Battle Group VII and VIII captured it from Al-Shabaab militants on September 2011. Brig.Gen Lokech said the stadium was essential in pacifying Mogadishu. The base was used by the UPDF and the SNA to conduct offensive operations against the militant insurgent group and promised to continue carrying out joint operations with Somali National Army so that the city remains peaceful. The stadium has also been a base for both Uganda and Nigeria Police serving under AMISOM.

During a pre-handover inspection tour of the stadium, President Farmajo said that the transfer was indicative of the security transition process and thanked AMISOM troops for their sacrifice.

The Somali government says the stadium will be used to support Somalia’s youth and sporting communities.

Prior to the civil war, the stadium was used for sporting activities, presidential addresses, political rallies and national ceremonies.

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