President Museveni has reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to supporting Somalia’s efforts to achieve lasting peace, stability and sustainable development as the two countries moved to strengthen cooperation on regional security, governance and integration.
Museveni made the remarks during bilateral talks with Somalia’s President, Dr. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, at State House, Entebbe.
The discussions focused on security cooperation, state-building, governance reforms and ways of deepening the longstanding relationship between Uganda and Somalia.
President Mohamud commended Uganda’s continued contribution to Somalia’s peace and security, particularly through the deployment of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) under regional peace support initiatives and other areas of bilateral cooperation.
“We are grateful for the security support that Uganda has continued to extend to Somalia. We are in a much better position today than we were before, although challenges remain,” Mohamud said.
The Somali leader also updated Museveni on ongoing political reforms in Somalia, including efforts to restore universal suffrage after decades without direct elections.
He said the reforms are aimed at strengthening democratic governance and ensuring that Somalia’s future is shaped by its citizens.
Museveni welcomed the progress and reiterated Uganda’s support for a peaceful, united and prosperous Somalia.
“For the last 19 years, we have stood with Somalia because we believe in supporting just causes and protecting innocent people. Our interest has always been to see Somalia become peaceful, stable and prosperous,” Museveni said.
The President said sustainable peace requires strong national institutions, unity and inclusive governance, noting that Somalia can overcome its challenges through dialogue and national cohesion.
Drawing from Uganda’s own experience, Museveni said the country’s stability and development have been anchored on building strong institutions and promoting national unity.
He pledged Uganda’s continued cooperation with Somalia in advancing peace, security and regional integration.
President Mohamud praised the longstanding friendship between the two nations and expressed Somalia’s commitment to expanding cooperation with Uganda in pursuit of shared peace, security and prosperity.
The two leaders also emphasised the importance of stronger collaboration among African countries in addressing regional security challenges and promoting sustainable development across the Horn of Africa.
