Uganda seeks Belgian backing for Somalia Mission
CAPTION: Uganda Defence Minister Kiryowa Kiwanuka, 2nd left, Belgian Ambassador Hugues Chantry, 2nd right, with other officers pose for a photograph after the meeting in Mbuya, Kampala Thursday August 20th, 2026. (Courtesy photo).
By Our reporter
KAMPALA — Uganda has urged Belgium to maintain support for the African Union mission in Somalia as Defence Minister Kiryowa Kiwanuka and Belgian Ambassador Hugues Chantry discussed defence cooperation and mounting regional security challenges
Kiryowa made the revelation while during a meeting with the Belgian Ambassador to Uganda, His Excellency Hugues Chantry in Mbuya, Kampala Thursday August 20th, 2026.
The meeting focused on Uganda-Belgium defence relations, regional security and Uganda’s peace and stabilisation efforts in the region.
Hon. Kiryowa highlighted the importance of addressing the root causes of conflicts, noting that sustainable peace requires a combination of security interventions, socio-economic transformation and political commitment.
He reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to contributing to peace and stability on the continent, stressing that regional security remains important to Uganda’s national interests and development.
He also called on Belgium to continue supporting the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), stressing the need to protect the gains made towards restoring peace and stability in Somalia.
Ambassador Chantry commended Uganda for its contribution to peace efforts in Democratic Republic of Congo, Somalia and other conflict-affected areas, as well as its response to Ebola. He reaffirmed Belgium’s support for Uganda’s efforts to promote peace and stability in the region.
The ambassador was accompanied by Col Michel Recour, outgoing Defence Attaché, Col Wendy Janssens, incoming Defence Attaché, and 2Lt Eva de Gelder from Brussels.
In attendance were Mrs. Edith Buturo, Under Secretary (Finance and Administration) MODVA; Lt Gen Jack Bakasumba, Chief of Joint Staff, Maj Gen Aloysious Asingura Kagoro, Director Legal affairs (MODVA); and Col Michael Katongole Ssempijja, JS TRADOC (Training).
