Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has reportedly appealed to Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni to delay the withdrawal of Ugandan troops from strategic areas in southern Somalia, fearing that their departure could create a security vacuum. The Somali leader wants Uganda to maintain its military presence until Somali security forces are adequately prepared to take full control of the affected areas.

Mohamud travelled to Uganda on October 27, 2026, for a meeting with Museveni, where the two leaders discussed security concerns and relations between their countries. The visit came after Uganda reportedly communicated plans to withdraw its troops from several locations in the Lower Shabelle region, prompting concerns within the Somali government.

The locations affected by the reported withdrawal plans include Barawe, Bulo Marer, Qoryoley and Janaale. Ugandan troops have been involved in operations against Al-Shabaab militants in these areas, supporting efforts to prevent the group from regaining control and threatening communities.

According to reports from Somali media, Mohamud is concerned that withdrawing Ugandan forces before local troops are ready could weaken security. The Somali government is reportedly seeking additional time to prepare its forces to assume responsibility for the areas currently protected by Ugandan soldiers.

The concerns have reportedly been heightened by the redeployment of some Somali troops who had previously been stationed in the affected locations. Their movement to other areas has raised questions about whether sufficient personnel are available to take over security duties immediately if the UPDF leaves.

Museveni confirmed that Somalia’s security situation was discussed during his meeting with Mohamud, although he did not publicly mention the reported appeal to delay the withdrawal. In a statement, the Ugandan president said the two leaders had discussed issues affecting their countries, particularly the security situation in Somalia.

The meeting also addressed economic cooperation, with Museveni announcing that Somalia would soon begin receiving Uganda’s value-added coffee. The announcement highlighted efforts by the two countries to strengthen commercial relations alongside their longstanding security partnership.

Uganda first deployed troops to Somalia in March 2007 under the African Union Mission in Somalia and continues to contribute forces to the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia. The mission supports Somali forces in fighting Al-Shabaab and strengthening national security. However, Uganda’s prolonged military involvement has faced questions, including from Chief of Defence Forces General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who has previously raised concerns about the sustainability of the deployment. Mohamud’s reported appeal comes as Somalia works to prepare its own forces to take greater responsibility for security.