Tributes are pouring in for the fallen Acholi great warrior, Maj Patrick Opiyo Awany who was among the four soldiers who were killed in an attack in Somalia on July, 7 2024.
The deceased Opiyo who was attached to the African Union Mission in Somalia, a regional peacekeeping mission operated by the African Union died on the spot after a front convoy vehicle he was in transporting food hit a landmine at around 11am. He had served in the military for over 10 years.
The incident happened just about 100 kilometers away from the AMISOM headquarters, according to his elder brother, General Charles Otema Awany, the commander of the reserve force.
Brig. Felix Kulaigye, the UPDF spokesperson confirmed the report, adding that four other soldiers including two Ugandans and two Somalis were injured in the attack.
This comes a year after al-Shabab fighters stormed a base housing African Union peacekeepers in Somalia killing 54 Ugandan soldiers. The 54 dead included the base commander Lt Col Edward Nyororo.
Al-Shabab has been fighting since 2006 to replace Somalia’s Western-backed government with its own rule based on a strict interpretation of Islamic law.
Richard Todwong took to social media platform X to mourn his brother, praising his dedication and bravery. “I celebrate my brother, Maj. Opio Patrick Awany. Your dedication to protecting our country was your code and you approached your duty with unmatched passion,” Todwong wrote. “You bravely faced countless battles in the Central African Republic, Eastern DRC Congo, and Somalia. Your life was tragically cut short this morning, 7/7/2024, as you served our continent Africa. May your legacy endure to inspire more heroes. We will forever hold you in our hearts, Patrick. You were a true patriot.''
"Brother Commander Maj. Patrick Opiyo Awany, it's unthinkable that death snatched you unexpectedly from your line of duty. Right from Central African Republic (CAR), where I shared a tent with you, you proved your passion for the defence of the defenceless. Peace and stability was your cardinal mission that earned you the nickname 'African Warrior' that we unequivocally bestowed upon you. In the vivid memories of that make-shift war-room in Obo, Central African Republic (CAR), Maj. Gen. Richard Otto Owili christened you, the 'mechanised and motorised soul of the UPDF operation'. Fare thee well my Pan African Warrior. You have not perished invain. You're a true hero of continental peace and stability. 'Wot maber' my brother and uncle. Till we meet again." His brother Tony Awany mourn.
"May your soul rip ? though you left at an expected time uncle maj opiyo Patrick ,still can't believe it??.'' - Winnifred Laker.
"My humble brother duty has finally called you to eternal rest, hard work was another name you carried always with you. Love and respect was your characters. You've served your country and beyond, May your soul Rest in Peace bro. Maj. Opio Patrick Awany. ????????????Ecclesiastes 3:1-7 - Martin Okello Awany.
