Troops of the Uganda People's Defence Force (UPDF) serving under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), alongside the Somali National Army (SNA), have captured Mubarak town after a joint assault on an Al-Shabaab stronghold.
The operation, code-named “Rolling Thunder,” began on February 28, 2026. Sector One Commander Brigadier General Jackson Kayanja led the mission.
Military officials said the offensive targeted key supply corridors used by Al-Shabaab to disrupt logistics and threaten civilians. Mubarak had served as a strategic base for the militants.
Battle Group 44 Commander and overall Operation Commander, Colonel Akena, praised the troops for their conduct during the assault.
“We have effectively secured the town and its surrounding areas,” Col Akena said, commending UPDF and SNA forces for their discipline and resilience.
He described the capture of Mubarak as a significant step in ongoing efforts to dismantle Al-Shabaab networks and restore stability.
Col Akena said allied forces neutralized several militants during the operation. He added that others were apprehended, weapons and ammunition were recovered, and improvised explosive device production sites were dismantled.
He noted that the gains will support the return of displaced residents and allow local administrative systems to resume operations.
The UPDF reaffirmed its commitment to supporting stabilization and peace enforcement efforts in Somalia. It pledged continued coordination with the Somali National Army and Somali authorities to advance long-term security and development.