Uganda Pushes Somalia for Air and Customs Agreements
Officials met in Mogadishu to review trade ties and discuss draft memoranda covering standards and health.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in International Trade
Live Poll
Do you believe increased trade deals between neighboring countries improve the economic outlook for your nation?
Uganda is urging Somalia to finalize critical air and customs agreements to facilitate smoother trade between the two nations. The push comes as officials convene in Mogadishu for a joint investment forum and commission review.
Why it matters
Uganda aims to reduce shipping costs and expand market access for its exports, seeking to move from paper-based agreements to active economic results. This collaboration follows Somalia's formal entry into the East African Community in 2024.
Ugandan exports to Somalia grew to $6.78 million in 2024, up from $2.75 million the previous year. Meanwhile, Uganda Airlines currently operates four weekly non-stop flights between Entebbe and Mogadishu.
The players
Uganda Airlines
This state-owned flag carrier provides direct air links between Entebbe and various regional destinations.
East African Community
This intergovernmental organization consists of member states in the African Great Lakes region working toward economic and political integration.
The details
Ugandan officials have submitted draft memoranda of understanding on customs, standards, statistics, and health to their Somali counterparts. These talks are occurring alongside an investment forum and exhibition, reflecting a broader effort to boost economic collaboration.
Timeline
March 4, 2024: Somalia officially joined the East African Community.
October 2025: The second Joint Permanent Commission session took place in Kampala.
October 21, 2026: The mid-term review of the Joint Permanent Commission opened in Mogadishu.
Market Dynamics
This bilateral push follows the precedent set by the East African Community integration protocols. The diplomatic efforts mark an attempt to harmonize trade standards within the regional bloc to align with long-term economic growth targets.
The potential finalization of these customs and air transport agreements could lower logistical costs for businesses operating across the East African corridor. Investors are watching for the upcoming Mogadishu Declaration to signal a shift toward more integrated regional markets.
The takeaway
The move reflects a strategic shift to turn regional diplomatic alignment into measurable trade volume. Businesses with ties to the East African market should monitor the upcoming declaration for changes to customs or logistics procedures.
What happens next
The ongoing joint investment and business forum in Mogadishu is scheduled to conclude with the formal signing of the Mogadishu Declaration.
Further reading
For broader context on regional commerce and regulatory frameworks, explore the International Trade section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by SoftPower News.
Live Poll
Do you believe increased trade deals between neighboring countries improve the economic outlook for your nation?
