By Wamala Sipirian
Published: September 30, 2026
Uganda has discussed the future of the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) with European Union officials as troop-contributing countries seek more predictable financing for the operation.
Defence Minister Kiryowa Kiwanuka met a delegation led by EU Deputy Ambassador to Uganda Eole Sury at the Ministry of Defence headquarters in Mbuya, Kampala.
According to the ministry, the talks focused on AUSSOM and international support for the mission as Somalia undergoes a security transition.
“We thank you very much for the support we have had with AUSSOM. Albeit all the challenges we’ve had over time, I think the EU has been one of our biggest and most steadfast partners,” Kiwanuka said.
EU Support for AUSSOM
The European Union approved an additional €75 million for AUSSOM in April, with the funding mainly intended to cover troop allowances, non-lethal equipment and related services.
The EU says its support to successive African Union missions in Somalia has reached almost €2.8 billion since 2007.
Funding has become a central issue in discussions about the future of the mission, particularly as troop-contributing countries seek more sustainable and predictable financing.
At a summit hosted by Uganda in July, troop-contributing countries agreed to pursue diplomatic engagement and organise a donors’ conference aimed at securing predictable financing during Somalia’s security transition.
Uganda Seeks Role in Future Discussions
Kiwanuka said Uganda’s military contribution should be considered in any discussions about the future of the mission and regional security.
“No conversation about the future, whether in the short, medium or long term, can take place without considering the role of the UPDF in regional security,” he said.
Uganda became the first country to deploy troops to the African Union mission in Somalia in 2007 and has continued contributing personnel through successive mandates.
AUSSOM took effect in January 2025, replacing the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS). Its current United Nations-authorised mandate runs until December 31, 2026.
Kiwanuka said Uganda would continue engaging the EU, the United States and other international partners over support for Somalia.
The ministry’s account of the meeting did not announce a new funding commitment or a decision regarding the mission’s future.
Deputy Chief of Defence Forces Lt Gen Sam Okiding, Chief of Joint Staff Lt Gen Jack Bakasumba and Defence Ministry Undersecretary Edith Buturo also attended the meeting.