Mogadishu, 23 October 2026 – Ugandan troops serving with the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) on Friday joined fellow citizens at a colourful ceremony marking Uganda’s 64th independence anniversary at the Ugandan Embassy in Mogadishu.
Uganda gained independence from Britain on 9 October 1962 after 68 years as a protectorate.
The President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, was chief guest at the ceremony, which was attended by Federal Government ministers, Uganda’s Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Henry Tumukunde, Uganda’s Ambassador to Somalia Prof. Sam Tulya-muhika, Deputy Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission and Acting AUSSOM SRCC Ambassador Mouktar Osman Karie, AUSSOM Force Commander Lt. Gen. Sam Kavuma, diplomats and United Nations officials.
President Mohamud congratulated the government and people of Uganda, highlighting longstanding bilateral ties and a shared commitment to peace, security and development.
“Since independence, Somalia and Uganda have been strong allies with a shared agenda and ambition for sustainable development. Our two nations not only share a rich history but also a future of common opportunities, which we are determined to pursue for the betterment of our two peoples,” the President said.
He acknowledged Uganda’s longstanding contribution to Somalia’s peacebuilding and security efforts, including its support for peacekeeping and the training of Somali Security Forces.
“For the Somali people, Uganda holds a special place in our journey towards lasting peace, stability and state-building. Uganda has stood alongside Somalia during some of the most difficult periods in our recent history. Its contribution to peacekeeping, security cooperation and training of Somali Security Forces has been significant and we will always remember that. Uganda will always have a place in our hearts. And those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for a peaceful Somalia will always be remembered and honoured,” said President Mohamud.
Addressing the gathering, Lt. Gen. Tumukunde reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to regional cooperation and to strengthening regional bodies as platforms for peace and stability.
“Uganda remains an ardent supporter of strengthening regional and sub-regional organisations such as the African Union, the East African Community, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and many others as centres for promoting cooperation and integration in areas such as peace and security and economic development,” said Minister Tumukunde.
“Today, we gather to celebrate the moment our nation earned its freedom, its sovereignty and rose to shape its own destiny. 9 October is not just a date on the calendar; it is a living reminder of the heavy price paid for the liberties we enjoy today.”
The celebration, held under the theme “Embracing Our Sovereignty with Hope and Visionary Leadership”, featured cultural, musical and artistic performances showcasing Uganda’s rich heritage, traditions and history.
Prof. Tulya-muhika thanked guests and dignitaries for attending.
“Allow me to take this opportunity to thank you all, in your various capacities, for sparing time and making the effort on this Friday afternoon to join us in celebrating Uganda’s 64th Independence anniversary here at the embassy,” said Prof. Tulya-muhika.
