Mubarak, 11 March 2026 – The African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) Ugandan contingent distributed assorted food and medical supplies to vulnerable residents in Mubarak, Lower Shabelle region, on Saturday.
The donation, benefitting over 300 households in the recently liberated town, was led by AUSSOM Sector One Commander Brig. Gen. Jackson Kayanja, alongside Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF) Land Forces Commander Brig. Gen. Abdullahi Aadan Hussein Cirro.
Some of the donated items included rice, wheat flour, cooking oil, dates, sugar, tea leaves, mattresses and bed covers, alongside medical supplies and essential drugs. The troops also conducted a medical camp to treat common ailments among community members.
Brig. Gen. Kayanja reaffirmed AUSSOM’s commitment to restoring peace and supporting communities disproportionately affected by conflict.
“Wherever war rages, it is the mothers, the children, and the elderly who suffer. We are here because peace is a necessity, not an option. AUSSOM and the Federal Government of Somalia will stand with you,” he said.
The Contingent Commander noted that the humanitarian support, including an ongoing medical camp, resulted from a desire to ease the suffering caused by prolonged drought, famine, and regional instability.
Brig. Gen. Kayanja praised the cordial relations among AUSSOM troops, international partners, and the local community, contributing to the region’s stability.
AUSSOM Sector One Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) officer, Maj. Jackson Mazingo, said these activities are meant to support community members lacking access to basic needs due to the insurgency.
“The purpose of this CIMIC activity is to ensure they (locals) get something for survival as a result of the insurgency caused by Al-Shabaab. Mobilisation has been done, supported by partners and well-wishers,” he said.
Maj. Mazingo added that AUSSOM is focused on building local confidence, with a mandatory requirement for troops to strengthen long-term partnerships with community members to ensure stability.
For Mubarak residents, the aid marks a turning point in the recovery process. Salah Hassan Ali, a resident, emphasised the importance of this assistance for their livelihoods.
“We are pleased with the assistance we have received from AUSSOM Ugandan troops. We now have peace and pray for its continuance. We request AUSSOM troops and partners to continue standing with us,” said Ali.
In the face of ongoing humanitarian challenges, AUSSOM continues to play a vital role in fostering peace and supporting the livelihoods of the Somali people.
