Thursday, July 3, 2025 — HAN
Uganda and Somalia share a long history of military cooperation, particularly through Uganda’s contribution to the African Union peacekeeping forces deployed in Somalia. These troops initially served under the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM).
In February this year, the two countries signed a security cooperation agreement aimed at strengthening their defense collaboration. The agreement was signed in Kampala by Uganda’s Minister of Defence, Jacob Oboth Oboth, and Somalia’s then Minister of Defence, Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur.
“Uganda and Somalia have a strong relationship. We have been in Somalia for over 17 years, and we are hopeful for a better future for Somalia,” said Hon. Oboth. Somalia’s former defence minister also praised Ugandan troops for their sacrifices in stabilizing Somalia.
Later that month, Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud visited Kampala, Uganda’s capital, where he met his counterpart, President Yoweri Museveni. The two leaders discussed the fight against terrorism and ways to enhance bilateral relations.
According to Somalia’s presidential spokesperson, Abdirahman Adan Xadaana, the Somali delegation accompanying President Mohamud held meetings with Ugandan officials during the visit.
A Significant Role
Some Ugandans view their country’s involvement in regional efforts as commendable, while others believe Uganda’s military presence in Somalia has made it a target for Al-Shabaab. In July 2010, two bomb attacks in Kampala killed 76 people who were watching the World Cup final on television, sparking calls for Uganda to withdraw its troops from Somalia.
Critics argue that the mission is too costly and that the funds would be better spent on domestic priorities, such as road repairs and expanding access to electricity in underserved areas. However, Uganda’s stance remains firm.
“The Kampala bombings showed the necessity of stabilizing and controlling Somalia. This is an effort the whole world must recognize,” said Ugandan military spokesperson Felix Kulayigye at the time. He emphasized that despite the attacks, it is vital for Ugandan troops to remain in Somalia.
While Ugandan forces may consider Al-Shabaab their adversary, the international community views them as playing a crucial role in supporting Somalia’s federal government and stabilizing the country.
Ugandan troops in Somalia are among the largest contingents operating under the African Union’s mission. They are mainly deployed in the Banadir region — home to the capital, Mogadishu — and Lower Shabelle. Other contributing countries include Kenya, Djibouti, and Ethiopia. Uganda was the first country to send troops to Somalia in March 2007, and it still maintains the largest contingent there.
This military cooperation is part of the broader effort to help the Somali federal government combat Al-Shabaab, a group largely pushed out of southern Somalia. The partnership has created an environment conducive to advancing peace, enabling communities to hold authorities accountable, and fostering economic development that connects national resources with government initiatives.
This report was already published by and is BBC Somali Service.
Source: BBC
