It’s not every day that two nations, bound by geography and shared aspirations, amplify their bonds on the global stage. Yet, the recent signing of a joint communiqué between Uganda and the Federal Republic of Somalia marks such an occasion. This accord, anchored in defence cooperation, is a testament to the burgeoning ties between these East African neighbors.
The formal signing unfolded with understated grandeur at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MODVA) headquarters in Mbuya, Kampala. It was here that Jacob Oboth Oboth, Uganda’s astute Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, sat across from Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, his Somali counterpart, each representing the hopes and ambitions of their respective countries.
Oboth initiated the meeting with a gesture of hospitality, having extended an invitation to Minister Nur for a working visit spanning two days—a gesture reminiscent of the quintessential African warmth often celebrated in literature and lore.
Minister Oboth took a moment to commend the existing defence ties, saying with palpable sincerity, “Uganda and Somalia share more than just a boundary. What touches Somalia invariably echoes here in Uganda. For over 17 years, Uganda has maintained its presence in Somalia, always with an eye towards a brighter future for our neighbor.” Indeed, one might ask, does not history teach us the importance of choosing our allies wisely?
Oboth further highlighted his nation’s adherence to the principles of Pan-Africanism—a philosophy ardently advocated by Uganda’s Commander-in-Chief, President Museveni. This ideology, a catalyst for unity and progress across the continent, resonates deeply within Ugandan society. Often, it is the ideals we hold dear that inspire the most profound actions.
For Somalia’s Minister of Defence, the gratitude flowed both ways. “The sacrifices made by the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces in Somalia cannot be overstated,” Minister Nur said, his voice tinged with reverence. “This spirit of Pan-Africanism empowers us and assures us of not just friendship, but solidarity that has spanned years.” Such words, when spoken from the heart, carry the weight of history and the promise of future collaborations.
The discussion between these ministers also revisited dialogues initiated by their nations’ leaders—President Museveni and President Sheikh Mohamud—during a historic meeting at State House Entebbe on February 7, 2025. How often do such high-level talks bear immediate fruits, setting into motion enterprises that alter geopolitical landscapes?
In this Kampala gathering, pressing issues were broached with candor. Topics ranged widely from the security turmoil in Somalia to broader regional concerns, each issue demanding attention if the Horn of Africa, and indeed Africa as a whole, is to remain a bastion of peace and stability.
The ministers also lauded the inception of the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). An initiative evolved from the foundational works of the erstwhile African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), AUSSOM signifies hope and a continuation of stabilizing endeavors in a land long beset by unrest.
The day’s discussions, intricate and layered, were witnessed by a cadre of esteemed dignitaries. Among them were Uganda’s former military stalwart and now Ambassador to Somalia, Maj Gen (Rtd) Nathan Mugisha, alongside Fardosa Mohamed Kanyare, who bears the mantle of Somalia’s Ambassador to Uganda. Not to be overlooked was Mrs. Rosette Byengoma, the steadfast Permanent Secretary for Uganda’s Ministry of Defence, each of whom played pivotal roles during these crucial talks.
As the world watches these two nations forge a more robust coalition, one might ponder—will this strengthened alliance become a blueprint for other African states navigating the complex matrix of security and cooperation?
In the unfolding narrative of Uganda and Somalia, where tradition meets burgeoning modernity, perhaps it is prudent to borrow a sentiment from the poet Maya Angelou—”We are only as strong as we are united, as weak as we are divided.”
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International–Monitoring
