The Somali National Army chief has commended Uganda’s military training and mentorship support, calling for stronger cooperation between the two countries.

Brig Gen Ibrahim Mohamed Mohamud, the Chief of Defence Forces, called for expanded military training cooperation with Uganda following a meeting with Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba.

During the meeting, Brig Gen Mohamud praised the Uganda Peoples' Defence Forces (UPDF) for supporting the training and professional development of Somali troops. He said continued cooperation would help strengthen the Somali National Army as Somalia navigates its current security challenges and election season.

The discussions took place at the Special Forces Command headquarters, where the two military leaders reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining the longstanding defence relationship between Uganda and Somalia.

Brig Gen Mohamud thanked Gen. Kainerugaba for inviting the Somali delegation to the inaugural African Defence Chiefs’ Conference on Military Operations Other Than War.

He described the conference as an important platform for learning, sharing experiences and exchanging ideas among African defence leaders.

The Somali military chief also briefed his Ugandan counterpart on the security situation in Somalia, highlighting the importance of continued support as the country moves through its election period.

He acknowledged Uganda’s contribution to training and mentoring Somali forces, saying the assistance helps sustain the sacrifices both countries have made over the past two decades.

Gen. Kainerugaba welcomed his Somali counterpart and thanked him for accepting the invitation to participate in the conference.

He said continued meetings and exchanges between the two countries demonstrate the strength of their historic relationship.

The Ugandan CDF reaffirmed that the UPDF remains committed to supporting the Somali National Army and the people of Somalia.

Uganda’s military involvement in Somalia has formed part of the two countries’ broader efforts to support peace and security in the region.

Beyond military cooperation, the two defence chiefs agreed to explore ways of expanding bilateral relations into economic and social development.

They encouraged Ugandans to consider investment opportunities in Somalia, noting that improvements in peace and security could create opportunities for stronger commercial ties.

The proposed expansion would build on existing defence cooperation and seek to strengthen connections between the two countries through investment and socio-economic engagement.

Several senior Ugandan military officials attended the meeting, including Chief of Joint Staff Lt Gen Jack Bakasumba, Joint Staff Training and Doctrine chief Maj Gen Wyclieff Keita, and Assistant Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security in charge of Defence Engagement and International Affairs, Col Martin Nsengiyunva.

The meeting highlighted the shared interest of Uganda and Somalia in sustaining military cooperation while exploring opportunities for closer economic and social relations.