Somalia, Uganda Seek to Expand Trade Beyond Security Ties

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Somalia and Uganda are looking to deepen economic cooperation and open new opportunities for businesses as the two East African countries seek to build stronger commercial ties beyond their longstanding security partnership.

The renewed push comes as Mogadishu prepares to host the Somali-Ugandan Business Forum alongside a meeting of the Joint Committee for Bilateral Cooperation, marking the first time the two events are being held in Somalia.

A high-level Ugandan delegation comprising government officials and business leaders arrived in Mogadishu to participate in discussions aimed at identifying investment opportunities, expanding trade and encouraging partnerships between companies in both countries.

The meetings are expected to provide a platform for businesses to explore potential cooperation while allowing government officials to address barriers that may limit bilateral trade and investment.

Uganda and Somalia have maintained close relations for nearly two decades, largely shaped by Kampala’s contribution to African Union peacekeeping and stabilisation operations in Somalia.

Ugandan troops have played a significant role in efforts to secure Mogadishu and other parts of the country, making Uganda one of Somalia’s longstanding regional security partners.

However, both governments are increasingly seeking to broaden their relationship to include trade, investment and private-sector development.

Stronger economic links with Uganda could create opportunities for Somalia to attract investment, expand regional markets and support private businesses as the country works to rebuild its economy after decades of conflict.

Ugandan businesses could also benefit from access to Somalia’s growing consumer market, although security concerns, infrastructure limitations and trade-related challenges remain obstacles to deeper commercial engagement.

Somalia’s Ambassador to Uganda, Fardowsa Mohamed Qanyare, welcomed the visiting delegation at Aden Adde International Airport, describing Mogadishu’s hosting of the meetings as an important step towards strengthening bilateral relations.

Uganda previously hosted two rounds of the joint cooperation meetings, making the latest gathering a significant development in efforts to establish more regular economic and diplomatic engagement between the two countries.

The forum comes as Somalia seeks to strengthen its position in regional trade, particularly following its admission to the East African Community in 2023.

Membership in the regional bloc offers Somalia opportunities to improve market access, encourage cross-border investment and deepen economic integration with neighbouring countries, including Uganda.

The discussions in Mogadishu could help translate those opportunities into practical business partnerships, although no new investment agreements or trade commitments have yet been announced.

The outcome of the meetings will be closely watched for signs that the two countries can turn their longstanding diplomatic and security relationship into stronger economic cooperation and tangible commercial opportunities.