Uganda pledges to maintain troop presence in Somalia

Uganda has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a military presence in Somalia, despite growing uncertainty regarding the future of the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). Defence Minister Kiryowa Kiwanuka announced that Kampala intends to sustain its contribution and plans to deploy a new contingent of troops to support regional security and stability.

The decision comes amid significant funding challenges for the mission, particularly as discussions intensify over security arrangements following the current framework's conclusion at the end of 2026. Uganda has called for a more predictable and sustainable financing mechanism to ensure the mission can effectively manage the security transition as Somali forces gradually assume more responsibility in operations against Al-Shabaab.

Uganda currently provides approximately 4,500 of the 12,000 personnel for the African Union mission, in addition to 2,000 soldiers deployed under a bilateral agreement signed in 2024. The country seeks international support and resources to maintain these operations, which are viewed as vital for regional influence and the ongoing fight against extremist groups.