The Federal Government of Somalia, through the Minister for Defense of the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) Hon Abdulkadir Muhamed Noor Jamah has applauded Uganda’s President Gen Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for standing with the people of Somalia during their period of need. 

Officiating as the Chief Guest at Uganda’s 60th independence celebrations held at the Uganda embassy in Mogadishu.

Hon Abdulkadir said “Somalia had partnered with very many African countries including Uganda and it was a good gesture that Uganda was still standing with the people of Somalia”. 

He congratulated the people of Uganda upon reaching the 60th anniversary of their self-rule and said there was so much to celebrate in Uganda, especially on how far Uganda has moved on the path of peace, stability and development.

The Deputy Head of Uganda’s Mission in Somalia HE ambassador Maj Gen (RTD) Nathan Mugisha, in his remarks delivered by the Charge d’ Affairs at the embassy Mr Robert Mugimba reiterated Uganda’s will to root for strengthening regional and sub regional organizations as centres for promoting peace, security, economic development, regional integration, good governance, social and humanitarian aspects.

Ambassador Mugisha added that Uganda’s position is motivated by Africa’s ideals of interdependence which included among others, shared sense of destiny, justice, freedom, security, prosperity, pluralism, hard work, resilience and peace. 

He concluded by the affirming Uganda’s commitment to supporting the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) in fighting insurgents.

H.E James Swan the United Nations Special Representative in Somalia thanked the President of the Republic of Uganda for his role in ensuring peace and stability not only through the military sphere but also through diplomatic means, guidance and providing leadership in somalia and the entire region.

Mr Swan specifically pointed out the crucial year 2011 when HE Museveni spear headed and bought to a harmonious conclusion of the talks/dialogue after the expiry of term of the Transitional Federal Government.

Brig Gen Keith Katungi the Uganda military Contingent commander in Somalia took the celebrants through Uganda’s history since 1894 when the British declared Uganda as their protectorate through independence to date. 

Others present at the function were the Deputy Minister of Defense of the FGS Abdul Fatah Khasim Muhamad, Yousuf the Chief of Defense Forces of the Somalia National Army (SNA) Gen Yusuf Rageeh Adowa, the African Transition Mission Force Commander Lt Gen Diomede Ndegeya and the Director, United Nations Support Office in Somalia Harjit Dhindsa among other dignitaries.