Uganda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gen. Jeje Odongo, is travelling to Türkiye to attend the Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF 2026), amid efforts to manage diplomatic tensions caused by recent social media posts by Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba.

The forum, scheduled for April 17–19, 2026, at the NEST Congress and Exhibition Centre, is themed “Mapping Tomorrow, Managing Uncertainties.”

Odongo was invited by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, and the visit is expected to cover investment opportunities and global cooperation.

The trip comes at a sensitive time following controversial posts by Gen. Muhoozi on X (formerly Twitter).

In one post, he declared that Uganda “stands with Israel spiritually and strategically.”

In another, he warned that “any aggression against Israel will have consequences for its adversaries,” remarks widely interpreted as targeting Iran.

He also suggested Uganda would be “ready to act in defence of its allies if required.”

These statements have raised concerns in Ankara and Tehran, given Türkiye’s regional alignments and Uganda’s long-standing policy of non-alignment.

Diplomatic sources indicate that quiet engagements have already taken place between Kampala and Ankara to clarify Uganda’s official position.

Gen. Odongo recently held two meetings with the Turkish Ambassador to Uganda to strengthen bilateral ties.

Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Okello Oryem also met the envoy.

Analysts say the visit is not only about economic diplomacy but also about reassuring Turkish officials that Uganda remains committed to a balanced and non-aligned foreign policy, despite public comments from military figures.

Uganda and Türkiye share strategic interests in Somalia, where both countries maintain significant military and training presence under the African Union framework.

Any perception of shifting alignments could complicate this cooperation.

The situation is further complicated by President Museveni’s recent engagements with Iranian diplomats at Kyankwanzi, attended by Gen. Odongo, aimed at clarifying Uganda’s position following Muhoozi’s remarks.

Uganda’s foreign policy has traditionally sought to balance relations with Western allies, Middle Eastern states, Türkiye, and Iran.

The latest developments highlight the challenge of maintaining consistent state-driven messaging.