Somalia, Uganda Deepen Security Ties as Presidents Back New AU Mission

GOOBJOOG NEWS | KAMPALA: Somalia and Uganda on Saturday reaffirmed their commitment to regional peace and security during a high-level meeting between President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni in Kampala.

The one-day official visit by President Mohamud focused heavily on strengthening bilateral defense cooperation and advancing the regional security agenda, as both nations welcomed the launch of the African Union’s new peace support mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).

In joint discussions held at Uganda’s State House in Nakasero, the two leaders pledged to fast-track the implementation of a previously signed bilateral defense agreement and called for greater international support for Somalia’s Security Development Plan.

“The launch of AUSSOM marks a critical new phase in Somalia’s security transition,” the two leaders said in a joint statement, emphasizing the importance of regional cooperation in countering instability in the Horn of Africa.

Uganda is one of the leading troop-contributing countries to African peacekeeping missions in Somalia and has played a key role in supporting Somalia’s efforts to rebuild its national army and combat extremist threats.

President Mohamud expressed appreciation for Uganda’s longstanding support, and formally invited President Museveni to pay an official visit to Mogadishu, an invitation Museveni accepted.

The leaders also highlighted the historical and strategic ties between their countries, committing to deepen cooperation across security, economic, and political sectors.