Ugandan Troops May End 19-Year Peacekeeping Mission in Somalia

Kampala, January 27, 2026 - Uganda’s military is considering ending its 19-year peacekeeping mission in Somalia, according to Maj Gen Felix Kulayigye, spokesperson for the Ugandan Armed Forces. The announcement follows remarks by Chief of Staff Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who said: "After 19 years in Somalia, very soon we plan to leave the country completely." Maj Gen Kulayigye highlighted Uganda’s contributions since its deployment in 2007, emphasizing efforts to facilitate dialogue among Somali factions and reduce ongoing fighting. He explained that peace talks previously held abroad in countries such as Kenya, Ethiopia, and Egypt had failed, but Uganda helped organize successful talks on Somali soil, fostering local ownership of the peace process. He also noted Uganda’s role in supporting Somali elections, ensuring leadership transitions were conducted peacefully rather than through violence. Since 2006, Somalia has held four elections under Uganda’s facilitation. Despite Uganda’s efforts, Al-Shabaab continues to carry out terrorist attacks, indicating that the security situation remains fragile even as Uganda evaluates the conclusion of its long-term mission. This potential withdrawal marks a significant shift in the Horn of Africa’s security landscape, as Ugandan forces have been a central component of stabilizing Somalia for nearly two decades.