Somalia Deepens Security Collaborations with Uganda and Burundi

Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has concluded key visits to Uganda and Burundi to enhance security ties with these nations, which are crucial contributors to African Union peacekeeping missions in Somalia. Discussions centered on boosting security cooperation, trade relations, and regional stability amidst ongoing threats from the Al-Shabaab terrorist group. The visits are seen as a strategic preparation for the renewal of peacekeeping missions as the current mandate is set to expire soon.

MOGADISHU, Somalia – In a significant diplomatic initiative, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia has recently concluded official visits to Uganda and Burundi, aiming to strengthen security collaborations with these pivotal nations that have been instrumental in the deployment of African Union peacekeeping forces in Somalia. During his visit to Uganda, President Mohamud conferred with President Yoweri Museveni in Kampala, where they deliberated on various aspects of security cooperation, as well as opportunities for trade and development. They particularly focused on the enhancement of support for the Somali Security Forces and the Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). A joint statement released post-meeting emphasized the leaders’ commitment to maintaining peace and stability not only within Somalia but also across the Horn of Africa and the broader continent. Furthermore, they acknowledged the pivotal role played by the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) and Somali Security Forces in combating the Al-Shabaab terrorist organization and bringing stability to the region. Following his engagements in Uganda, President Mohamud proceeded to Burundi to meet with President Evariste Ndayishimiye. The discussions highlighted the importance of Bolstering commercial and diplomatic ties, thereby fostering a stronger partnership between Somalia and Burundi. A statement from Somali Information Minister Daud Aweis reiterated the significance of Burundian forces in the ongoing peacekeeping efforts in Somalia and identified pathways to reinforce collaborative strategies for regional stability. Political analyst Abdiasis Abdirahman suggested that President Mohamud’s visits were strategically timed, as the current peacekeeping mandate is set to conclude in December. He noted, “This visit was long overdue because Somalia is facing serious security challenges and the government needed to ensure that there wouldn’t be a vacuum after the current mission ends.” Both Uganda and Burundi are key contributors to the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) and ATMIS, which have been engaged in countering Al-Shabaab since its inception in 2007. The terrorist group has intensified its attacks against the Somali government and allied forces, especially following President Mohamud’s declaration of an “all-out war” against them.

The context of Somalia’s diplomatic endeavors with Uganda and Burundi is rooted in ongoing security challenges exacerbated by the activities of the Al-Shabaab terrorist group. Since 2007, the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) has been a critical component in stabilizing Somalia amidst a protracted conflict. The peacekeeping forces from Uganda and Burundi have played a substantial role in these efforts. As the current mandate for ATMIS approaches its expiration date, Somalia is faced with the pressing need to reinforce alliances and secure continuous support from its regional partners to ensure stability and peace in the region. The diplomatic visits by President Mohamud are indicative of Somalia’s proactive stance in addressing its security landscape and seeking to avert a potential vacuum in the peacekeeping efforts.

In conclusion, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s recent diplomatic engagements with Uganda and Burundi represent a strategic movement towards enhancing security collaborations amidst ongoing threats from Al-Shabaab. By fostering stronger ties with these influential allies, Somalia aims to secure a robust framework for ongoing peacekeeping operations, ensuring stability in a region that has long been plagued by conflict. The focus on joint efforts in combating terrorism and improving security conditions underscores the urgency of international cooperation in the face of evolving risks.

Original Source: www.garoweonline.com