Gen Muhoozi Calls for Sustained Backing for Somalia

Gen Muhoozi hostel military leaders from countries contributing troops to Somalia

Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, on Wednesday called for sustained regional and international support for the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), saying the mission faces a critical phase as it prepares for changes in its logistical support arrangements.

Speaking at Speke Resort Munyonyo during preparations for the Second Extraordinary Summit of Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs) to AUSSOM, Gen. Muhoozi said African countries must work together to preserve the security gains made in Somalia.

The meeting, hosted by Uganda, brought together military chiefs and senior officials from countries contributing troops to the mission, including Burundi, Djibouti, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya and Somalia.

In his opening remarks, Gen. Muhoozi welcomed the delegations and thanked participating countries, the organising committee and development partners for supporting preparations for the summit.

“The discussions come at a critical time as the mission continues to support Somalia’s security and stabilisation efforts,” he said, urging African governments and international partners to strengthen cooperation in addressing operational and logistical challenges facing AUSSOM.

The CDF said the anticipated conclusion of the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) mandate would require new and sustainable mechanisms to ensure AUSSOM continues receiving the logistical support needed to carry out its mandate.

He said strategic partnerships, shared responsibility and coordinated action would be essential in safeguarding the progress made in Somalia and supporting the country’s transition towards lasting peace and stability.

The summit is particularly significant for Uganda, whose troops have been deployed in Somalia continuously since 2007, making the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) the longest-serving contingent in the African Union peace support mission.

Military chiefs are expected to present recommendations to defence ministers on Thursday before heads of state meet on Friday to consider the future of AUSSOM and measures to strengthen the mission’s effectiveness and sustainability.

AUSSOM replaced the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) on Jan. 1, 2025, and is mandated to support Somali security forces in degrading the Al-Shabaab insurgency while preparing the country to assume full responsibility for its own security.