Egypt’s diplomacy in Africa took centre stage in Kampala as Foreign Minister Badr Abdel-Aati held a series of high-level meetings during the African Union summit on Somalia. This came as part of Egypt’s efforts to reinforce Egypt’s commitment to Somalia’s unity and stability, while building stronger partnerships across the continent.
Abdel-Aati carried a message from President Abdel Fattah El Sisi, stressing Egypt’s determination to stand firmly against any attempt to undermine Somalia’s sovereignty. He told UN officials that Egypt supports all regional and international efforts to stabilise the country, warning that financial shortfalls facing the African Union mission could weaken its ability to deliver security. “Sustainable funding is essential,” he said, urging international partners to ensure the mission and the UN support office remain active and effective.
The minister also underlined Egypt’s readiness to provide practical assistance, drawing on its experience in counter-terrorism, border security, and institution-building. For Cairo, Somalia’s stability is not just a local issue ; it is a cornerstone for peace in the Horn of Africa, the Red Sea, and beyond.
At the same time, Abdelatty used his meetings with Ugandan leaders to highlight broader cooperation. He spoke of expanding trade, investment, and medical projects, while stressing the importance of unity among Nile Basin countries. He praised Uganda’s role in leading consultations within the Nile Basin Initiative, describing it as vital for restoring inclusivity and consensus.
Regional security was another recurring theme. Discussions touched on Sudan, eastern Congo, and wider African challenges, with agreement to strengthen coordination both bilaterally and through multilateral platforms.
African affairs expert Rami Zuhdi sees Egypt’s approach as part of a deliberate strategy. “Cairo is moving the Somali issue from individual efforts to collective action within the African Union,” he explained. “Most African states face similar challenges, and rejecting separatist moves is in their collective interest. Allowing unilateral breakaways would undermine continental peace and security.”
By intensifying its diplomatic activity, Egypt is positioning itself as a key player in shaping Africa’s security and development agenda. The Kampala meetings showed that Cairo’s vision is both regional and inclusive: defending Somalia’s unity, strengthening African partnerships, and ensuring that cooperation, not division, defines the continent’s path forward.
