The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has announced the immediate suspension of all defence and military cooperation activities with the Federal Republic of Germany, citing concerns over the conduct of the German Ambassador to Uganda, His Excellency Mathias Schauer.
In a statement released on Sunday, Colonel Chris Magezi, the Acting Director of Defence Public Information, said the decision was based on “credible intelligence reports” indicating that Ambassador Schauer has been “actively engaged in subversive activities in the country.”
“These activities involve engagement with hostile pseudo political-military forces operating within Uganda against the legitimate government,” the statement read in part.
While the UPDF did not provide specific details about the nature of the alleged subversive activities, it emphasized that the suspension will remain in effect “until the full resolution of the matter.”
Strained Bilateral Ties
Germany has been a longstanding development partner with Uganda, supporting a range of sectors including health, education, and security.
In recent years, German-Ugandan military cooperation has included training programs, logistical support, and joint security initiatives, particularly in peacekeeping operations under the African Union and United Nations mandates.
The abrupt suspension signals a significant strain in diplomatic relations between Kampala and Berlin, and could affect broader development cooperation if the standoff continues.
Awaiting Official Response
As of Sunday evening, there was no official response from the German Embassy in Kampala or the German Federal Foreign Office.
It remains unclear whether Berlin will recall Ambassador Schauer or initiate formal diplomatic consultations with the Ugandan government.
Political analysts suggest the move may further escalate tensions between Uganda and its Western partners, some of whom have recently expressed concern over governance, human rights, and democratic space in the country.
The Ugandan Ministry of Foreign Affairs has not yet issued a separate statement on the matter, and it remains to be seen whether formal diplomatic channels will be activated to resolve the standoff.
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