President Yoweri Museveni has condemned the politics of identity, particularly clan-based polarization, which he described as “poisonous” and a threat to Africa’s progress.
This, he said on Friday at an Extraordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government from Troop Contributing Countries to the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) at the State House in Entebbe.
The summit focused on addressing ongoing challenges in Somalia’s security and political landscape, with Museveni delivering a pointed message on fostering unity and strengthening Somalia’s national forces.
Mr. Museveni urged African leaders to discourage divisive clan and sectarian agendas, warning that such forces, driven by greed or ignorance, undermine the continent’s future.
“It is not correct to allow Africa to be diverted again by the disorientation of the politics of identity, especially when it is pursued by force,” Museveni stated, emphasizing his consistent dialogue with Somali stakeholders on this issue.
Museveni called for robust support for Somalia’s “patriots” who prioritize national unity and progress.
He advocated for the creation of a volunteer-based Somali national army dedicated to national salvation, rather than a paid force, as a sustainable model for long-term stability.
Highlighting the need for adequate resources, he stressed that Somalia requires either a well-equipped national army or sufficient external forces to address its security challenges effectively.
“Somalia and its supporters should not underestimate the problem,” he cautioned.
The summit underscored the importance of AUSSOM, which replaced the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) in January 2025, in supporting Somalia’s fight against Al-Shabaab and stabilizing the country.
Museveni’s remarks reflect Uganda’s longstanding role as a key troop contributor to AU missions in Somalia, alongside countries like Kenya, Ethiopia, and Burundi.
The Ugandan leader concluded by expressing gratitude to the attending Heads of State and Government for their commitment to the summit, reinforcing the collective resolve to support Somalia’s path to stability.
The discussions are expected to shape AUSSOM’s strategy, focusing on enhanced military coordination, capacity building, and countering divisive narratives in Somalia.
This summit marks a critical moment for regional leaders to align on a unified approach to Somalia’s complex challenges, with Museveni’s call for patriotism and strategic military investment setting the tone for future engagements.
