Uganda, Somalia Strengthen Defence Ties with New Cooperation Agreement

Uganda and the Federal Republic of Somalia have signed a joint communiqué to bolster defence collaboration between the two nations.

The agreement was formalized at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MODVA) headquarters in Mbuya, Kampala, during a meeting between Uganda’s Defence Minister, Jacob Oboth Oboth, and his Somali counterpart, Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur. Minister Nur was in Uganda for a two-day working visit at Oboth’s invitation.

Oboth highlighted the longstanding partnership between Uganda and Somalia, emphasizing that Uganda’s involvement in Somalia for over 17 years reflects its commitment to regional stability.

“Uganda and Somalia share strong ties. What affects Somalia also impacts Uganda. We remain dedicated to supporting a more stable Somalia,” Oboth stated. He also credited Uganda’s Pan-Africanist approach, championed by President Museveni, as a driving force behind the country’s regional engagements.

Somalia’s Defence Minister expressed gratitude for the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) and their efforts in maintaining security in Somalia.

“We deeply appreciate the sacrifices made by our Ugandan brothers and sisters in ensuring Somalia’s stability. The spirit of Pan-Africanism continues to strengthen our bond,” Abdulkadir said.

The ministers reflected on discussions previously held between Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud during the latter’s visit to Uganda on February 7, 2025. They reviewed the progress of bilateral defence cooperation and shared insights on Somalia’s security situation and regional stability.

Additionally, they welcomed the launch of the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), which succeeds the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) and aims to reinforce security gains.

The meeting was attended by Uganda’s Ambassador to Somalia, Maj Gen (Rtd) Nathan Mugisha, Somalia’s Ambassador to Uganda, Fardosa Mohamed Kanyare, and Ministry of Defence Permanent Secretary Rosette Byengoma, among others.