Uganda has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening military cooperation with Egypt and Türkiye as the country continues to build strategic defence partnerships with key international allies.
The Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka, made the commitment during separate meetings with the Egyptian Defence Attaché, Colonel Ahmed Harb, and the Military Attaché of the Embassy of Türkiye, Colonel Caner Sağlam, at the Ministry headquarters in Mbuya, Kampala.
The discussions focused on expanding cooperation in areas such as military training, technology transfer, knowledge sharing and broader defence collaboration between Uganda and the two countries.
During his meeting with the Egyptian Defence Attaché, Hon. Kiryowa described the relationship between Uganda and Egypt as a long-standing partnership built on shared interests and historical connections.
He noted that the two countries have strong ties, particularly because of their connection through the River Nile, adding that the relationship between Uganda and Egypt is one that has existed for many years and continues to grow stronger.
“We are tied by the providence of God. This is not a relationship that we are forging; it is one that already exists and cannot be separated,” Hon. Kiryowa said, while appreciating Egypt’s continued support and cooperation.
The Minister also praised the military training programmes between the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Egyptian Armed Forces, saying the exchange of knowledge and experience has benefited both countries.
He recalled seeing Egyptian officers participating in training at Kimaka and noted that Ugandan officers have also received training in Egypt, expressing Uganda’s interest in maintaining and expanding the partnership.
Beyond military cooperation, Hon. Kiryowa appreciated Egypt’s support in Uganda’s fight against foot-and-mouth disease through the provision of vaccines. He said the assistance had helped reduce the impact of the disease whenever outbreaks occurred.
“Although we recently experienced a small outbreak, it was nothing compared to what we have seen before because of the support you extended to us,” he said.
Colonel Ahmed Harb reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to strengthening relations with Uganda, particularly in the defence sector. He also invited Hon. Kiryowa to attend Egypt’s Armed Forces Day celebrations scheduled for October.
In another engagement with Türkiye’s Military Attaché, Colonel Caner Sağlam, the Defence Minister highlighted the importance of Uganda’s partnership with Türkiye, especially in military training, technology advancement and knowledge transfer.
Hon. Kiryowa said Uganda values the support received from Türkiye and remains committed to further strengthening defence cooperation through continued training and collaboration between the two armed forces.
“Uganda and Türkiye have enjoyed a long-standing relationship. We appreciate the military training, technology, and knowledge transfer support that we have received from Türkiye,” he said.
Colonel Sağlam noted that defence relations between Türkiye and Uganda have made significant progress in recent years through military agreements, training programmes and joint exercises.
He said Türkiye remains committed to expanding cooperation with Uganda and supporting efforts that improve defence capacity and strengthen relations between the two nations.
The meetings were attended by the Chief of Joint Staff, Lt Gen Jack Bakasumba, and the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs Undersecretary for Finance and Administration, Mrs. Edith Buturo.
The engagements demonstrate Uganda’s continued efforts to strengthen international defence partnerships aimed at improving military skills, enhancing technology cooperation and promoting mutual security interests.
