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Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba Meets Senior Somali Military Officials in Nairobi to Discuss Security in Mogadishu
In a high-level security meeting held in Nairobi this week, the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) of Uganda, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, engaged in discussions with senior Somali military officials regarding the security situation in Mogadishu. The meeting, which took place ahead of the upcoming East African Community (EAC) Chiefs of Defence Forces conference in Kenya, provided an opportunity for both nations to strengthen their collaboration on regional security matters.
Leading the Somali delegation was Brigadier General Madey Nurey Sheikh, the Deputy Chief of Defence of the Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF). Brig. Gen. Madey and his team provided a comprehensive update on the ongoing security challenges in the Somali capital, emphasizing the continued need for international and regional cooperation in addressing these concerns.
Uganda’s Continued Commitment to Peacekeeping in Somalia
During the discussions, the Somali delegation expressed deep appreciation for Uganda’s unwavering commitment to peacekeeping efforts in Somalia. The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) have played an integral role in stabilizing Somalia since their initial deployment in 2007 under the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS). The UPDF’s presence has significantly contributed to countering security threats posed by extremist groups and ensuring relative peace in Mogadishu and other parts of Somalia.
Brig. Gen. Madey Nurey Sheikh commended Uganda’s role in Somalia’s security, stating, “Uganda has been a key pillar in supporting Somalia’s stability. The contributions of the UPDF have been invaluable in countering security threats and ensuring peace in Mogadishu and beyond.”
Uganda has remained steadfast in its mission to support Somalia in rebuilding its security structures and stabilizing its territories, a commitment that has continued under the leadership of Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba. The discussions in Nairobi reaffirmed Uganda’s resolve to work closely with Somali forces and other regional partners to address emerging security threats.
Strengthening Regional Security Collaboration
Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba welcomed the briefing from the Somali delegation and reiterated Uganda’s dedication to fostering peace and security within the region. He acknowledged the long-standing partnership between Uganda and Somalia and emphasized the importance of continued collaboration in countering terrorism, insurgency, and other security challenges.
“We appreciate the collaboration between our forces and remain committed to strengthening peace and stability in Somalia and the broader East African region,” Gen. Muhoozi stated. He further highlighted that Uganda’s contribution to the peacekeeping mission in Somalia aligns with its broader objective of ensuring regional security and stability.
The meeting also underscored the significance of intelligence-sharing and coordinated operations in tackling security threats within Somalia and the East African region. Maj. Gen. James Birungi, Uganda’s Chief of Intelligence and Security, was also present at the meeting and emphasized the critical role of intelligence in counterterrorism and security operations.
“Intelligence-sharing is a crucial aspect of our security strategy. Strengthening collaboration in this area will enable us to anticipate and counter threats before they escalate,” Maj. Gen. Birungi stated.
The Role of the East African Community in Regional Security
The discussions in Nairobi took place ahead of the East African Community (EAC) Chiefs of Defence Forces (CDF) meeting, which is scheduled to be held in Kenya. This upcoming meeting is expected to address key security issues affecting the region, including the situation in Somalia, ongoing counterterrorism efforts, and the role of regional military forces in maintaining stability.
The EAC has been actively involved in promoting regional security cooperation among member states, with Uganda playing a leading role in peacekeeping and counterterrorism missions. The engagement between Ugandan and Somali military officials in Nairobi serves as a precursor to the broader discussions that will take place at the EAC CDF conference.
A Path Towards Lasting Peace
Uganda’s involvement in Somalia through ATMIS and other regional security initiatives demonstrates its commitment to fostering lasting peace in the Horn of Africa. The country has been instrumental in supporting the Somali government’s efforts to rebuild its security institutions and counter extremist threats from groups such as Al-Shabaab.
As Uganda continues to play a crucial role in regional security, the meeting in Nairobi has further reinforced the collaborative efforts between Uganda and Somalia in addressing common security challenges. Both nations remain committed to working together to enhance stability and protect the gains made in counterterrorism and peacekeeping efforts.
With the upcoming EAC Chiefs of Defence Forces meeting, Uganda and Somalia will continue to explore avenues for deeper military cooperation, intelligence-sharing, and joint security operations, ensuring that peace and stability remain a priority in the region.