On October 26, 2026, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni of Uganda met with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia at State House in Entebbe, Uganda. The meeting focused on Somalia's security situation, particularly efforts to defeat the Al-Shabaab insurgency, as well as strengthening bilateral trade and economic cooperation between the two countries. President Museveni emphasized the need for Somalia to unite against Al-Shabaab, citing ideological divisions and misdiagnosis of problems as major challenges.
President Museveni drew parallels between Somalia's situation and that of Sudan, where sectarian approaches to governance have contributed to political divisions and exclusion. He stressed that Somalia's challenges require a clear understanding of their underlying causes and a united approach, warning that divisions among the majority could allow a minority to maintain influence. President Museveni's remarks reflect his concerns about the impact of ideological divisions on Somalia's stability.
President Mohamud briefed President Museveni on the security situation in Somalia and commended the contribution of the Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) to efforts to restore peace. Ugandan troops have played a significant role in African Union-led peace support operations in Somalia, supporting Somali security forces in confronting Al-Shabaab militants. President Mohamud expressed hope that Ugandan troops would remain in Somalia longer to help achieve full pacification and lasting stability.
The two leaders also discussed ways to expand bilateral trade, with particular emphasis on improving direct access for Ugandan products to the Somali market. President Museveni welcomed the development that Somalia had permitted Uganda to establish a warehouse in the country through which processed Ugandan coffee would be marketed and sold. This arrangement is expected to create a more direct route for Ugandan coffee exporters to reach Somali consumers.
Currently, Somalia imports coffee from European countries, with Ugandan coffee reportedly passing through other markets before reaching Somali consumers. The warehouse initiative could provide Ugandan exporters with a more direct channel into Somalia's market while expanding opportunities for trade and investment. This development reflects efforts by the two governments to complement security cooperation with economic partnerships that can strengthen bilateral relations.
Somalia's Ambassador to Uganda, Fardowsa Mohamed Qanyare, informed the meeting that approximately 8,000 Somalis operate businesses in Uganda, while about 15,000 Somali students are pursuing studies at Ugandan universities. President Mohamud appreciated Uganda's hospitality towards Somali nationals living, studying, and conducting business in the country. The meeting was attended by several high-ranking officials from both countries.
The discussions between President Museveni and President Mohamud reflect a shared commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and addressing the challenges facing Somalia. Key areas of focus include security cooperation, economic partnerships, and trade expansion. By working together, the two countries aim to promote stability and prosperity in the region.
Key points
- President Museveni urges Somalia to unite against Al-Shabaab.
- Uganda and Somalia discuss boosting coffee trade.
- Somali President commends Uganda's military contribution to peace efforts.
