Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has reaffirmed Africa’s commitment to Somalia, saying regional countries must remain united in the fight against extremism and efforts to secure lasting stability.
Wararka Soomaaliya
Speaking at the close of a three-day summit of leaders from countries contributing troops to the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), Mr Museveni said Uganda’s involvement was based on Pan-African solidarity and regional security interests.
The summit brought together leaders from Uganda, Ethiopia, Kenya, Djibouti, Egypt and Burundi.
Mr Museveni said Uganda’s decision to deploy forces to Somalia was not based on geographical proximity, noting that the two countries do not share a border.
Faahfaahinta
He identified the fight against religious extremism and solidarity with neighbouring countries facing regional security threats as the main reasons for Uganda’s continued involvement.
He warned against extremist movements seeking to impose ideological or religious doctrines on African societies, arguing that the continent’s history was characterised by diversity, coexistence and respect for different traditions.
Mr Museveni also pointed to the interconnected nature of security threats in the Horn of Africa, recalling how ideological and political pressures had previously emerged from Sudan and affected the wider region.
Saamaynta
He said Uganda’s intervention was also intended to support Ethiopia in confronting threats that crossed national borders.
The Ugandan president called on ideological movements to respect the sovereignty and social fabric of African states, while stressing the importance of Somalia achieving lasting peace, self-determination and strong institutions.
African-led response urged
Wararka.so waxay kuu soo tebineysaa wararka ugu dambeeyey ee Soomaaliya iyo caalamka. Si aad ula socoto wararkii ugu dambeeyey, booqo boggayaga.
