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Triumphs of UPDF’s Somalia mission
Uganda’s withdrawal should be understood as an orderly transition in the form of its contribution, not a retreat from its friendship with Somalia or its commitment to regional stability, writes Ahmed Hadji
Ahmed Hadji. (File)
By: Admin ., Journalist @New Vision
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OPINION
By Ahmed Hadji
Uganda’s nearly two-decade engagement in Somalia is a significant chapter in its contribution to African peace and security. Since 2007, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) have served with regional and international partners to support Somali institutions, protect civilians and create conditions for stability. The phased withdrawal provides an opportunity to recognise this service, reflect on Uganda’s national interests and consider how co-operation can continue.
Uganda became the first country to deploy troops under the African Union Mission in Somalia in March 2007. Its contribution continued through the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia and the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), established last year, placing the UPDF at the centre of Africa’s collective security efforts.
On Monday, the UPDF announced the phased withdrawal of troops serving under a bilateral security arrangement with Somalia. The first contingent, comprising 109 soldiers, had returned to Uganda, with the initial drawdown expected to conclude within days. This is separate from the broader AUSSOM withdrawal, which includes approximately 4,500 Ugandan personnel and is scheduled for completion by the end of next year. The transition is intended to progressively transfer security responsibilities to Somali national forces.
Uganda’s engagement has advanced clear national interests. A stable Somalia contributes to security across the Horn of Africa and East Africa, protecting Uganda’s strategic environment. Co-operation against al-Shabaab helps limit extremist networks, a concern underscored by the July 2010 Kampala attacks, which killed 74 people. The mission has strengthened Uganda’s defence partnerships, provided operational experience to the UPDF and enhanced its diplomatic role in the African Union. Uganda’s official objectives in Somalia have also included commercial diplomacy, consular services, support for Ugandan citizens and businesses, and promoting the country’s image abroad. These interests remain relevant after the military drawdown.
The UPDF’s military contribution has been substantial. Ugandan forces helped secure Mogadishu, protect key infrastructure, including Aden Adde International Airport and the port, and support operations that enabled Somali authorities to extend their presence. These achievements created space for political and institutional development. They deserve recognition alongside the sacrifices of soldiers, families and supporting communities.
On Monday, the UPDF announced the phased withdrawal of troops serving under a bilateral security arrangement with Somalia. The first contingent, comprising 109 soldiers, had returned to Uganda, with the initial drawdown expected to conclude within days. This is separate from the broader AUSSOM withdrawal, which includes approximately 4,500 Ugandan personnel and is scheduled for completion by the end of next year. The transition is intended to progressively transfer security responsibilities to Somali national forces.
Uganda’s engagement has advanced clear national interests. A stable Somalia contributes to security across the Horn of Africa and East Africa, protecting Uganda’s strategic environment. Co-operation against al-Shabaab helps limit extremist networks, a concern underscored by the July 2010 Kampala attacks, which killed 74 people. The mission has strengthened Uganda’s defence partnerships, provided operational experience to the UPDF and enhanced its diplomatic role in the African Union. Uganda’s official objectives in Somalia have also included commercial diplomacy, consular services, support for Ugandan citizens and businesses, and promoting the country’s image abroad. These interests remain relevant after the military drawdown.
The UPDF’s military contribution has been substantial. Ugandan forces helped secure Mogadishu, protect key infrastructure, including Aden Adde International Airport and the port, and support operations that enabled Somali authorities to extend their presence. These achievements created space for political and institutional development. They deserve recognition alongside the sacrifices of soldiers, families and supporting communities.
Military progress and state-building are different undertakings. Security operations can protect territory and institutions; lasting stability also depends on Somali-led dialogue, capable public institutions, economic opportunity and effective national security forces. The transition is an opportunity for Somalia to assume greater responsibility, with continued regional and international support. Uganda’s contribution can evolve into partnerships in professional training, institutional development and regional diplomacy, guided by agreed priorities and Somali ownership.
The mission has involved significant human, operational and financial commitments. A public account of Uganda’s cumulative expenditure and casualties would preserve the record of national service and its lessons, while recognising successive contingents. The sustainability of African-led missions also depends on predictable financing, coordination and equitable international burden-sharing. These are practical considerations for future peace support operations, not a reflection on the value of Uganda’s service.
Uganda’s withdrawal should be understood as an orderly transition in the form of its contribution, not a retreat from its friendship with Somalia or its commitment to regional stability. Diplomatic engagement, defence co-operation, training and intelligence collaboration can preserve important relationships as Somali institutions assume greater responsibility.
After nearly 20 years, Uganda can take pride in its service while supporting Somalia’s recovery. The fallen deserve remembrance, veterans recognition and their families lasting gratitude. Uganda’s record demonstrates the value of African countries working together to address shared security challenges. The mission’s enduring measure will be the partnership and stability that Somalia and its neighbours build in the years ahead through sustained regional co-operation and mutual respect.
The writer is a foreign affairs analyst, an Adjunct Senior Fellow with the Centre for Policy and Strategic Studies Africa and the Provost at the Lincoln Institute for Diplomacy and International Relations, Kampala, Uganda
The mission has involved significant human, operational and financial commitments. A public account of Uganda’s cumulative expenditure and casualties would preserve the record of national service and its lessons, while recognising successive contingents. The sustainability of African-led missions also depends on predictable financing, coordination and equitable international burden-sharing. These are practical considerations for future peace support operations, not a reflection on the value of Uganda’s service.
Uganda’s withdrawal should be understood as an orderly transition in the form of its contribution, not a retreat from its friendship with Somalia or its commitment to regional stability. Diplomatic engagement, defence co-operation, training and intelligence collaboration can preserve important relationships as Somali institutions assume greater responsibility.
After nearly 20 years, Uganda can take pride in its service while supporting Somalia’s recovery. The fallen deserve remembrance, veterans recognition and their families lasting gratitude. Uganda’s record demonstrates the value of African countries working together to address shared security challenges. The mission’s enduring measure will be the partnership and stability that Somalia and its neighbours build in the years ahead through sustained regional co-operation and mutual respect.
The writer is a foreign affairs analyst, an Adjunct Senior Fellow with the Centre for Policy and Strategic Studies Africa and the Provost at the Lincoln Institute for Diplomacy and International Relations, Kampala, Uganda