Uganda considers possible deployment of troops to Gaza as Somalia Mission nears end

Uganda is considering new options for supporting and sustaining its military forces as its long-running deployment in Somalia approaches a possible conclusion, including the potential deployment of Ugandan troops to the Gaza Strip with support from the United States, according to reports cited by Uganda local media.

A Ugandan official identified as Williams said Uganda and its partners are discussing ways to secure additional financial and logistical support for the country’s armed forces as the Somalia mission enters a new phase.

Among the options reportedly under consideration is the deployment of Ugandan troops to Gaza with U.S. backing.

The proposal has reportedly moved beyond preliminary discussions. A Ugandan military official familiar with the plans said authorities had begun identifying and selecting personnel who could potentially be deployed to Gaza.

However, key details remain unclear. There has been no official confirmation of the number of Ugandan troops that could be deployed, the nature of their potential mission, or when such a deployment might take place.

The discussions come as countries maintaining military deployments abroad face challenges related to financing, equipment and the long-term sustainability of their forces. U.S. support for a possible Ugandan deployment to Gaza could provide Kampala with an additional source of financial and logistical assistance.

If implemented, a Ugandan deployment would potentially form part of broader international discussions over the role of foreign forces in Gaza, particularly in arrangements being considered for security and stabilization following the conflict.

Uganda has maintained a significant military presence in Somalia for years as part of African Union-backed efforts supporting the Somali government and combating Al-Shabaab. The future of that deployment has become increasingly uncertain as the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) undergoes changes and Somalia assumes greater responsibility for its own security.

Kampala is therefore exploring options for sustaining its military capabilities and securing continued support as its Somalia deployment approaches a new phase.

At this stage, the reported Gaza deployment remains under consideration, and no final decision has been publicly announced by the Ugandan government.

Mustaqbal