Uganda to Host Summit on Counterterrorism in the Horn of Africa region

KAMPALA, Uganda — President Yoweri Museveni announced that Uganda will host a summit on April 25 to discuss the ongoing AUSSOM operation in Somalia, which began in January 2025.

Leaders from countries contributing troops to the mission, as well as Egypt, which is set to join the operation, are expected to attend. The summit will focus on strategies for combating terrorism in the Horn of Africa.

Al-Shabaab, an affiliate of Al-Qaeda, continues to carry out attacks in the region, with the group controlling parts of Somalia since 2008. The summit will seek ways for international partners to collaborate on addressing the ongoing threat posed by the group.

The AUSSOM operation, involving 11,000 troops from various countries, supports the Somali government in stabilizing areas previously controlled by Al-Shabaab. The operation is set to last for one year, during which Somali forces will receive assistance to enhance their capabilities.

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud met with Museveni in Kampala on April 5 to discuss strengthening bilateral relations, regional security, and the fight against Al-Shabaab.

Uganda has had troops in Somalia since 2007, becoming the first country to send forces there. Currently, over 4,000 Ugandan soldiers are stationed in key areas, including the Aden Adde International Airport and the port, contributing to several operations aimed at pushing Al-Shabaab out of strategic locations in Mogadishu.

GAROWE ONLINE