By Jazeerah Mirembe
ENTEBBE.President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has reaffirmed Uganda’s unwavering commitment to supporting Somalia’s pursuit of lasting peace, stability and sustainable development, as the two countries pledged to deepen cooperation on regional security and governance.
The President made the remarks today during high-level bilateral talks with the President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, H.E. Dr. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, at State House, Entebbe.
The meeting focused on regional security, state-building, governance reforms and strengthening the longstanding partnership between Uganda and Somalia.
President Mohamud expressed profound appreciation for Uganda’s continued contribution to Somalia’s peace and stability, particularly through the deployment of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) under regional peace support efforts, as well as broader 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,” President Mohamud said.
He also briefed President Museveni on Somalia’s ongoing political reforms, highlighting efforts to restore universal suffrage after decades without direct elections.
According to President Mohamud, the reforms are aimed at strengthening democratic governance and ensuring that Somalia’s future is determined by its own citizens.
President Museveni welcomed the progress and reaffirmed Uganda’s steadfast 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,” President Museveni said.
He stressed that lasting peace can only be achieved through strong national institutions, national unity and inclusive governance, adding that Somalia has the potential to overcome its challenges through dialogue and cohesion.
Drawing on Uganda’s own history, President Museveni noted that the country’s stability and development had been built on strengthening national institutions and promoting unity above sectarian interests.
He reiterated Uganda’s readiness to continue working closely with Somalia in advancing peace, security and regional integration.
President Mohamud praised the enduring friendship between the two nations and reaffirmed Somalia’s commitment to expanding cooperation with Uganda in pursuit of shared peace, security and prosperity.
The two Heads of State also underscored the importance of sustained collaboration among African countries in addressing regional security threats and advancing sustainable development across the Horn of Africa.