Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud concludes visits to Uganda and Burundi to strengthen security ties, discussing cooperation on military and trade initiatives while preparing for the upcoming expiration of the peacekeeping mission’s mandate amid ongoing challenges from the Al-Shabaab terrorist group.
MOGADISHU, Somalia – In a significant diplomatic move, Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has concluded official visits to Uganda and Burundi, aiming to strengthen security ties with these countries that have been pivotal in providing peacekeeping forces under the African Union to Somalia. President Mohamud’s visit to the Ugandan capital, Kampala, included discussions with Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni focusing on enhancing cooperation on security, trade, and development initiatives, including support for the Somali Security Forces and the Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). The two leaders exchanged insights regarding the security dynamics within Somalia and the broader region, emphasizing the necessity of sustaining peace and stability in the Horn of Africa and throughout the African continent. They recognized the commendable sacrifices made by the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) and the Somali Security Forces in their efforts to counter the Al-Shabaab terrorist group, as detailed in a joint statement following their meeting. Subsequently, President Mohamud met with Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye, where they resolved to bolster their commercial and diplomatic relations, thereby forging a stronger partnership. They acknowledged the crucial role of Burundian troops in the peacekeeping operations in Somalia and deliberated on strategies to enhance their collaborative efforts to maintain regional stability. Political analyst Abdiasis Abdirahman suggested that President Mohamud’s visits were likely a preparatory step for the upcoming African Union mission, particularly as the current peacekeeping mandate is set to expire in December. He remarked, “This visit was long overdue because Somalia is facing serious security challenges and the government needed to ensure that there would not be a vacuum after the current mission ends.” Since 2007, Al-Shabaab has been engaged in conflict with the Somali government and the international forces deployed by the African Union, which the United Nations Security Council authorizes. The terrorist group has intensified its attacks following President Mohamud’s declaration of an “all-out war” against it.
The African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), later succeeded by the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), has played a critical role in stabilizing Somalia since 2007. Uganda and Burundi are two of the main contributors to these missions, deploying troops to assist the Somali government in combating the Al-Shabaab insurgent group. This recent series of visits by President Mohamud signifies Somalia’s ongoing efforts to consolidate its security framework amid persistent threats and to seek further international cooperation as the mandate for current peacekeeping forces approaches its expiration.
In summary, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s recent visits to Uganda and Burundi reflect Somalia’s commitment to enhancing security cooperation with these key partners. The discussions laid the groundwork for increased collaboration in military, trade, and diplomatic areas, especially in light of the looming expiration of the current peacekeeping mission. The support from Uganda and Burundi, alongside Somalia’s strategic initiatives, is expected to play a vital role in stabilizing the Horn of Africa amidst ongoing challenges posed by the Al-Shabaab terrorist group.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
