The fourth session of the Ethiopia-Uganda Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) concluded in Addis Ababa with a historic signing of eight agreements, marking a significant step in strengthening relations between the two nations. The high-level meeting brought together top government officials from both countries, who expressed their commitment to deepening cooperation across various sectors for mutual benefit.

The Ugandan delegation was led by General Odongo Jeje Abubakhar, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, who was accompanied by key ministers including Francis Mwebesa (Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives), Fred Byamukama (State for Transport), Bwino Kyakulaga (State for Agriculture), and General David Rubakuba Muhoozi (State for Internal Affairs). On the Ethiopian side, the delegation was headed by Dr. Gedion Timothewos, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, alongside Dr. Kassahun Gofe (Trade and Regional Integration), Mr. Getachew Menegste, and other senior officials.

Dr. Timothewos warmly welcomed the Ugandan delegation, expressing Ethiopia’s pleasure in hosting the fourth JMC session. He highlighted the importance of the meeting as an opportunity to review the progress of bilateral relations and explore new areas of collaboration. The Ethiopian minister stressed the need for stronger regional cooperation to address shared challenges, including security threats and economic development. He also acknowledged the strong partnership between the two countries in ensuring fair and sustainable use of the Nile waters, a critical resource for both nations.

Additionally, Dr. Timothewos emphasized the importance of joint efforts in combating terrorism in the region, calling for closer coordination under the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). He noted that Ethiopia and Uganda have a shared responsibility in promoting peace and stability in East Africa.

General Odongo, leading Uganda’s delegation, remarked that the JMC session was taking place at a time when relations between the two countries were thriving. Despite a six-year gap since the last meeting, both nations had maintained strong ties through high-level visits, continuous engagements, and collaboration in regional and international forums. He reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with Ethiopia, describing the JMC as a crucial platform to elevate bilateral relations to new heights.

The discussions during the two-day meeting covered a wide range of issues, including diplomatic consultations, trans-boundary water management, regional peace and security, trade, energy, immigration, tourism, agriculture, and transport. These areas reflect the broad scope of cooperation between Uganda and Ethiopia, both of which are key players in the East African region.

The most notable outcome of the meeting was the signing of eight Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in various fields. These agreements include air services, industrial cooperation, water resource management, technical cooperation in agriculture, animal industry and fisheries, aviation training, and assistance in aircraft accident and incident investigation. The trade agreement was also a significant milestone, as it is expected to boost economic exchanges between the two countries.

Both ministers expressed their governments’ readiness to implement the agreements and decisions reached during the JMC session. They pledged to work closely to ensure that the commitments translate into tangible benefits for their citizens. The signing of these agreements signals a renewed effort to enhance collaboration in critical sectors that drive economic growth and regional integration.

The strengthening of ties between Uganda and Ethiopia comes at a crucial time when African nations are increasingly looking inward for solutions to their challenges. By deepening their partnership, both countries aim to leverage their strengths in agriculture, trade, and security to foster sustainable development. The agreements on water resource management and aviation, in particular, highlight the strategic nature of their cooperation, given the importance of the Nile River and air transport in regional connectivity.

As the two nations move forward, the successful conclusion of the JMC session sets a positive tone for future engagements. The implementation of the signed agreements will be closely watched, as it will determine the extent to which Uganda and Ethiopia can transform their commitments into real progress. With both governments expressing strong political will, there is optimism that this partnership will yield significant benefits for their people and the wider East African region.

The fourth JMC session has not only reinforced diplomatic ties but also opened new avenues for economic and technical collaboration. As Uganda and Ethiopia continue to work together, their partnership could serve as a model for regional cooperation in Africa, demonstrating how neighboring countries can achieve shared prosperity through dialogue and mutual support. The world will be watching as these two nations take bold steps toward a stronger, more integrated future.