The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uganda would like to inform the general public and the international community at large that the 15th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the African Union Heads of State and Government will take place in Kampala as scheduled. Many Heads of State and Government have already confirmed their attendance and Government will ensure that sufficient security measures are put in place to guarantee their safety while they are in Uganda.

Parallel side events have already started with the African Union -Civil Society Organization Pre-Summit Forum opening at Imperial Royale, today 14th July 2010. This event and a number of other activities will culminate into the Summit which will start on 25th July and end on 27th July 2010, at Munyonyo Commonwealth Resort.

The Ministry wishes to reassure the public, both local and international, that Government has put in place security measures to ensure the safety of life and property of all Ugandans and others within the territorial boundaries of Uganda.

The cowardly acts committed by the terrorist group on July 11th should not be allowed to scare peace loving people from attending the AU Summit whose theme is aimed at addressing critical challenges facing Africa in Health, Energy, infrastructure and food security. The Summit will also address peace and security on the African Continent, including the situation in Somalia.

Uganda's commitment and support towards the objectives of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) still remains firm and the Uganda People's Defence Forces Contingent in that country shall not be withdrawn.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs will in due course address a press conference regarding preparations for the Summit.

Kampala: 14th July 2010.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Kampala, Uganda