Mogadishu, 09 February 2026 – Operational readiness depends not only on troops in the field, but on the systems that sustain them. This week, the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) reinforced that foundation by strengthening the frontline support capacity of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), training 18 Sector One personnel from the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF).

Held in Mogadishu, the two programmes — Kitchen Hygiene & Food Safety Training (six participants) and Field Kitchen Diesel Operator Training (12 participants) — brought together officers from Barawe Seaport, Baledogle, Laantabuur, Golweyn and Mogadishu Forward Operating Bases. the courses aimed to standardise food service practices, enhance safety standards and ensure the reliable operation of field kitchen equipment across Sector One locations.

The Kitchen Hygiene & Food Safety Training focused on strengthening food safety standards and kitchen hygiene protocols, improving hazard identification and waste management practices, and reinforcing fire safety procedures and effective communication in high-risk environments.

In parallel, the Field Kitchen Diesel Operator Training equipped participants with the skills required for the safe operation and maintenance of field kitchen diesel equipment — a critical component in ensuring uninterrupted meal preparation in remote and demanding operational settings.

Since launching the programme in 2011, UNSOS has trained approximately 2,000 personnel in food safety and field kitchen operations, reinforcing the logistical backbone of AUSSOM across Somalia.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, AUSSOM Sector One Chief Administration Officer, Colonel Hamza Kasajja, hailed the training as a key part of military operations and thanked UNSOS for helping to build the military personnel’s skills.

“To that end, I thank UNSOS for organising this course for us. I believe it is very beneficial, and a lot has been acquired, most importantly as we assemble for operations from different countries,” said Col. Kasajja on Monday, praising instructors and the AUSSOM Ugandan participants for their commitment to completing the course.

Beyond technical instruction, the training emphasised leadership and responsibility within Forward Operating Bases.

“The knowledge you have picked, you should not be selfish with it,” Lieutenant Agnes Adite, the AUSSOM Sector One Catering Officer told the officers. “When you return to your Forward Operating Bases (FOBs), share the knowledge with your colleagues. You are now the pillars of food safety in the field.” 

For UNSOS trainers, the objective extends beyond certification.

“Today, you leave not merely with a certificate, but with practical skills, heightened awareness, and a clear understanding of your responsibilities as food handlers and mobile kitchen operators,” said Captain Paul Gambo, a trainer.

Participants highlighted the practical value of the courses.

“I have learned how to operate some of the kitchen equipment, which is a value-added,” said Lance Corporal Sylvia Anirwoth, thanking the organisers for the opportunity.

Private Max Ekou, based at the AUSSOM Sector One Barawe FOB in the Lower Shabelle region, also welcomed the professional advancement.

“I came here when I did not know how to handle and prepare food, but now I am perfect. I can prove that I am perfect, and the skills I have gained are very good,” said Private Ekou. 

As the officers return to their respective bases, they carry reinforced standards and technical expertise that directly contribute to troop health, safety and sustained operational effectiveness. Through targeted capacity-building initiatives such as these, UNSOS continues to enable AUSSOM to deliver on its mandate across Somalia.