Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has reportedly demanded $1 billion and additional conditions in exchange for Uganda’s long-standing military role in Somalia. The claims have been reported by international media and circulated widely on social platforms.
According to the reports, the demand includes $1 billion as compensation for Uganda’s involvement in peacekeeping operations in Somalia. The Ugandan military has been part of African Union-backed missions in the country for years.
The statements were shared on social media platform X and picked up by several Africa-focused news outlets. However, the claims have not been independently verified by official government sources.
Muhoozi Kainerugaba argued that Uganda’s military contributions in Somalia should be rewarded. He described the request for $1 billion as a “security dividend” for years of sacrifice and deployment costs.
He also accused Turkey of benefiting economically from its growing presence in Somalia. He pointed to infrastructure projects, including ports and airports, where Turkish companies have secured major contracts.
According to his remarks, Uganda’s military presence helped create stability that allowed foreign investments to grow. He suggested that this stability justified compensation in the form of $1 billion.
Kainerugaba further warned that Kampala could consider closing the Turkish embassy if his concerns are not addressed. However, no official statement from Ugandan authorities has confirmed this position.
In addition, he reportedly claimed that Turkish state-linked companies have expanded their influence in Somalia’s development sector. These projects include major infrastructure and logistics operations.
So far, neither Turkish nor Somali officials have issued a response to the allegations or demands. The situation remains unverified and largely based on social media reports.
The mention of $1 billion has drawn significant attention due to its unusual diplomatic context. Analysts note that such statements, if confirmed, could create tensions in regional relations.
Earlier, Muhoozi Kainerugaba had also made controversial posts on X, including claims about deploying 100,000 Ugandan soldiers to support Israel.
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At present, the reports remain unconfirmed, and no formal policy announcement has been made by Uganda’s government regarding the alleged $1 billion demand.
