Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has expressed gratitude for the growing cooperation between Uganda and Ethiopia, particularly in the area of regional security.
“I thank my Ethiopian brothers for the excellent co-operation we have. We are working very well together on ensuring regional security. I hope to see my beloved brother, PM Abiy, in Uganda soon,” Gen. Muhoozi posted on X (formerly Twitter).
The statement reflects the strengthened military and diplomatic ties between the two countries, following a series of high-level engagements in 2024.
High-Level Defence Diplomacy
General Muhoozi paid an official visit to Addis Ababa in December 2024, where he held strategic talks with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Ethiopia’s Chief of General Staff, Field Marshal Birhanu Jula. Their discussions focused on deepening defence cooperation, intelligence sharing, and joint efforts to address regional security threats, especially in the Horn of Africa.
This meeting built on earlier engagements, including Field Marshal Jula’s visit to Uganda in July 2024, during which he met with Gen. Muhoozi and other top military officials in Kampala. The July talks laid the groundwork for a robust military partnership, including training exchanges and coordination on peacekeeping operations.
A Growing Strategic Partnership
Both Uganda and Ethiopia are regarded as key actors in East Africa’s security landscape. Their collaboration is increasingly vital as the region navigates complex challenges—from the instability in Sudan and Somalia.
Both Countries are part of the AUSSOM troop contributing countries.
Gen. Muhoozi’s praise of Ethiopia speaks to Uganda’s broader foreign policy goals of strengthening south-south cooperation and promoting African-led solutions to African problems.
Just last week, a high-level delegation from Uganda was in Addis Ababa for the Joint Ministerial Commission where a number of MoUs were agreed on.
