Uganda's Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka, has called on African Union troop-contributing countries to adopt a comprehensive approach to restoring peace in Somalia, saying military operations alone cannot achieve lasting stability.

Kiwanuka made the remarks during the ministers' session on the second day of the second Extraordinary Summit of the Troop Contributing Countries to the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) at Speke Resort, Munyonyo, in Kampala.

He said lasting peace in Somalia requires political dialogue and reconciliation between the Federal Government of Somalia and the Federal Member States, alongside continued security efforts.

According to Kiwanuka, the summit reflects a shared commitment by participating countries to promote peace and stability in Somalia, the Horn of Africa and the wider African continent.

The minister also commended the Chiefs of Defence Forces, led by Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, for the discussions held during the first day of the summit.

"While progress has been made through AMISOM, ATMIS and now AUSSOM, the security situation in Somalia remains fragile. Al-Shabaab continues to carry out attacks targeting security forces, government institutions and civilians," Kiwanuka said.

He cautioned against creating security gaps during the transition process, noting that previous mission transitions had demonstrated the risks associated with premature troop withdrawals. He called for continuous assessment of the security situation, including forward operating bases that have already been handed over to Somali security forces.

On financing, Kiwanuka said troop-contributing countries have carried significant operational responsibilities over the years despite facing unpredictable and inadequate funding.

"As we move forward under AUSSOM, there is an urgent need to establish financing mechanisms that are adequate, predictable and sustainable. AUSSOM cannot continue without the requisite resources," he said.

Also addressing the meeting, the Director of the Conflict Management Directorate in the African Union Commission's Department of Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Ms. Patience Zanelie Chiradza, warned that the mission's main support line is expected to face serious challenges beginning in January 2027.

She said earlier technical engagements in Addis Ababa reviewed the political, operational, security, financial and logistical aspects of options for the future of the mission.

Chiradza also commended the Chiefs of Defence Forces for their work during the first day of the summit in preparing a report for consideration by the ministers. She further expressed appreciation to the Government and people of Somalia for their resilience and commitment to achieving a peaceful and lasting solution to the country's challenges.

The second day of the summit brought together Ministers of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs, UPDF generals, senior military officers and delegates from AUSSOM troop-contributing countries.