Uganda Calls for Capability-Based Defence Partnerships

What the report says

Uganda has urged a rethink of global defence cooperation, arguing that partnerships should be built around practical capabilities, shared interests and common security responsibilities rather than fixed geopolitical blocs. The remarks were made by Defence and Veteran Affairs Minister Kiryowa Kiwanuka during a plenary session at the 15th Seoul Defence Dialogue in South Korea, which ran from September 7 to 9 and brought together ministerial-level delegates from more than 70 countries.

According to Nile Post, Kiwanuka said modern threats require countries to seek partners that can contribute specific expertise, resources and training. He framed Uganda’s position around the idea that “strategic autonomy” should not mean isolation, and he said states do not need to share the same identity, culture or geography to cooperate on security. He also argued that African countries should be treated as security partners, not just recipients of outside assistance.

The minister outlined five priorities for future defence partnerships: building sustainable national capabilities, strengthening African responsibility with international support, advancing defence industrialisation and technological sovereignty, and investing in human capital. He also pointed to Uganda’s participation in regional and international peace operations, including Somalia, as evidence of its role in wider security efforts.

On the sidelines of the dialogue, Kiwanuka met South Korea’s defence minister, Ahn Gyuback, to discuss expanded cooperation. Uganda proposed a Centre of Excellence for Taekwondo, as well as deeper collaboration in military medicine and hospital management. The reported discussions reflected a broader push for long-term defence modernisation through training, technology and institutional support.