In an era where international alliances are more crucial than ever, Presidents Yoweri Museveni of Uganda and Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia have taken another step towards cementing a strategic partnership that transcends mere diplomacy. During President Mohamud’s swift but impactful visit to Uganda on April 5, 2025, the two leaders not only reaffirmed their commitment to security cooperation but also signed pivotal agreements aimed at bolstering bilateral ties.
For nearly two decades, Uganda has stood as a steadfast ally in Somalia’s arduous journey towards stability. Their partnership is a testament to shared goals in a region that has witnessed its fair share of turbulence. But what brings these nations together with such determination? Is it regional stability, economic potential, or perhaps a shared history of resilience against adversity?
The core of their conversation during the visit revolved around the ongoing security challenges in Somalia and the Horn of Africa. The persistent threat of terrorism loomed large, as Presidents Museveni and Mohamud called for ramped-up collaboration to tackle these multifaceted threats head-on. Their discussions articulated not just a commitment to peace, but an understanding of the formidable sacrifices made by the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) and the Somali Security Forces against the relentless menace of Al-Shabaab.
“We commend the commencement of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) and urge for adequate, predictable, and sustainable funding for its success,” stated a joint communique.
This assertion isn’t just a diplomatic script; it’s a clarion call to the international community to shoulder responsibility. As the Extraordinary Summit of Troop Contributing Countries to AUSSOM looms on April 25, the urgency of cohesive leadership in combating regional terrorism becomes a focal point.
President Mohamud’s gratitude to President Museveni for facilitating this pivotal meeting underscores more than diplomatic niceties—it shines a light on the camaraderie between Uganda and Somalia, forged in the crucible of shared struggles. Both presidents emphatically underscored the necessity of building a resilient Somali Security Force. The international community, they urged, must fully engage with Somalia’s Security Development Plan, providing the backbone needed for a seamless AUSSOM transition.
Building upon these discussions, a Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) was inked, a component of a broader Memorandum of Understanding on Defence Cooperation. Defense Minister Jacob Oboth Oboth, signing on behalf of Uganda, emphasized how this agreement aims to “enhance structured military collaboration between the two countries.” His Somali counterpart, Abdullahi Sheik Ismael Fara-Tag, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the potential for deeper ties in security.
The momentum didn’t halt at military matters. The ministers hinted at finalizing agreements spanning education, sports, and immigration management, underscoring a shared vision for a diversified relationship.
Moreover, the plan to convene a Joint Permanent Commission and an Investment and Business Summit “as soon as possible” adds another layer to this burgeoning collaboration. Economic integration, often sidelined in the shadow of security concerns, promises to redefine the bilateral landscape.
It’s intriguing to consider how the proposed Bilateral Labour Agreement, already submitted by Uganda’s Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, might transform the workforce dynamics in both nations. Could this pave the way for a more reciprocal and sustainable labor migration framework? Only time will tell, but the signs are promising.
In a broader context, both leaders reaffirmed their optimism towards African integration, emphasizing crucial frameworks like the East African Community (EAC), IGAD, and the African Union. In a gesture of humility and mutual respect, President Museveni lauded the resilience of the Somali people, while President Mohamud acknowledged Uganda’s unwavering support since 2007 in securing peace.
Closing this chapter of diplomacy, President Mohamud extended an invitation to President Museveni to visit Somalia—a symbolic gesture that reinforces their shared journey towards prosperity and peace. With a visit yet to be scheduled, one wonders: What narratives will unfold from these continued interactions?
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International–Monitoring.
