KAMPALA — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud arrived in Kampala on Monday to attend the inauguration of Ugandan leader Yoweri Museveni, scheduled for May 12, officials said.
Mohamud was received by senior Ugandan government officials upon arrival, with his visit seen as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen regional cooperation between Somalia and Uganda.
The trip highlights longstanding diplomatic and security ties between the two nations, particularly their shared role in combating the Islamist militant group Al-Shabaab, which remains a major threat to stability in Somalia and the wider Horn of Africa.
Uganda is one of the largest troop-contributing countries to the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia, the African Union-led peacekeeping operation mandated to support Somali security forces in their fight against the insurgency. Ugandan troops have been deployed in Somalia since 2007, playing a key role in securing major cities, including Mogadishu.
During his stay, President Mohamud is expected to hold bilateral talks with Museveni and other African leaders attending the ceremony. According to Somali officials, discussions will likely focus on enhancing military cooperation, accelerating the transition of security responsibilities to Somali forces, and addressing broader regional challenges, including cross-border security and counterterrorism efforts.
Analysts say the meeting could also touch on the future of ATMIS, as Somalia gradually assumes greater responsibility for its own security, amid concerns about funding gaps and the timeline for troop drawdowns.
Museveni, who has ruled Uganda since 1986, is set to begin another term following his recent electoral victory. His leadership has been marked by a strong regional security role, particularly through Uganda’s involvement in peacekeeping missions across Africa.
The inauguration ceremony is expected to attract several African heads of state, diplomats, and international observers, underscoring Uganda’s continued influence in regional politics.
Somalia and Uganda maintain close relations, with Kampala playing a central role not only in military support but also in training Somali security personnel and supporting institutional development.
Mohamud’s visit comes at a critical time as Somalia intensifies operations against Al-Shabaab and seeks stronger regional backing to stabilize the country and advance state-building efforts.
