Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) troops serving under the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), in coordination with the Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF), have successfully recaptured Awdheegle town in Lower Shabelle region and the operation was concluded yesterday Sunday 5th October 2025.
The military campaign, the third phase of Operation Silent Storm, marks a major milestone in ongoing efforts to weaken and dismantle Al-Shabaab’s presence in the region and following days of combined arms offensives and sieges, joint forces cleared the town of Al-Shabaab fighters, flushing them from hideouts, trenches and tunnels.
During the operation, the forces inflicted significant casualties on the militants, capturing others and recovering weapons, including submachine guns, PKMs, RPGs, sniper rifles, and caches of live ammunition abandoned by retreating terrorists.
The success follows the earlier recapture of Bariire, Sabiid and Anole towns, consolidating gains by AUSSOM and Somali forces in Lower Shabelle.
The African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia Force Commander, Lt Gen Sam Kavuma, praised the joint forces and commended the brave efforts of the gallant UPDF troops and the Somali National Armed Forces to degrade Al-Shabaab.
He reiterated that the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia remains fully committed to implementing the Somali Transition Plan, culminating in the transfer of security responsibilities to Somali forces.”
The Sector One Commander, Brig Gen Joseph Musoke Ssemwanga, described the capture of Awdheegle as a significant blow to Al-Shabaab.
“This is a major achievement for AUSSOM, the Somali Government, and the local population. I thank our troops for their resilience and bravery that ensured the defeat of the terrorists in Awdheegle town,” Brig Gen Ssenwanga said.
Awdheegle had become a strategic base for Al-Shabaab operations, including attacks, concealment of ammunition and vehicles for Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs), and the establishment of illegal checkpoints to extort locals.
The Joint Forces are currently holding the town and clearing remaining pockets of resistance in the Awdheegle district, Malable, and surrounding areas.
The Operation Commander of the third phase, Col Awiny Akena, engaged local elders through a Key Leader Engagement (KLE) to address grievances and community needs.
Operation Silent Storm, launched on 10th June 2025, has progressed through shaping, decisive, and sustainment phases and has systematically reclaimed key strategic towns of Sabiid and Anole on 21st July, Bariire on 8th August and now Awdheegle, reinforcing efforts to create a safer and more secure Somalia.
