Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni today hosted Heads of State and Government at the Extraordinary Summit of Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs) to the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) now African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission (AUSSOM) in Entebbe, with a firm call to reject identity-based politics and support Somalia’s path to stability through patriotism and a unified national army.

The summit brought together regional leaders and key stakeholders in the AU-led peace and stabilization mission in Somalia to chart a way forward as the mission prepares for its final phases of transition and exit.

In his keynote address, President Museveni cautioned against the dangerous politics of clan polarization in Somalia, saying it continues to hinder national unity and reconstruction efforts.

“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. “Clan polarization that some actors promote is poisonous and should be discouraged.”

He emphasized that only patriots—Somalis who prioritize national interests over narrow sectarian or clan identities—can deliver long-term peace and development. He called on the international community and progressive forces worldwide to support such individuals.

“Those who insist on clan and sectarian organization, whether out of greed (parasitism) or ignorance, are mortal enemies of the future of the African race,” the Ugandan leader said.

President Museveni also reiterated his long-standing advice on Somalia’s military development, urging the country to focus on building a volunteer army grounded in national salvation and self-sacrifice rather than financial incentive.

“Somalia and its supporters should not underestimate the problem,” he warned. “We require sufficient and better-equipped Somali soldiers or, alternatively, enough external and well-equipped soldiers.”

The summit comes at a critical time, with ATMIS set to conclude its mandate later this year, and concerns mounting over the readiness of Somali security forces to take over full responsibility for the country’s stability.

Leaders from Somalia, Kenya, Ethiopia, US and EU Envoys were present. IGAD Chief Dr Workneh Gebeyehu and the AUC Chairperson Youssouf Mahamoud also attended the meeting.

Uganda is the largest troop contributors to ATMIS, formerly AMISOM, and has played a key role in peacekeeping and stabilization efforts in Somalia for over a decade.