Kampala, Uganda – President Yoweri Museveni hosted a high-profile delegation from the United States at State Lodge, Nakasero, to discuss key areas of cooperation including trade, infrastructure, and regional development. The meeting, which was attended by Speaker of Parliament Anita Among, provided a platform for strengthening bilateral relations between Uganda and the United States.

High-Level Talks on Trade and Infrastructure

These included prominent personalities like Dr. Rollan Roberts, a former US presidential candidate; Mr. David Woodruff, member of the Senate of West Virginia; and Mr. Siljander Mark Deli, a former Congressman-cum-Ambassador. Their visit aimed at exploring mutual areas of interest and reinforcing collaboration between the two nations.

In the discussions, President Museveni emphasized that the economic transformation of Africa should be paramount on the agenda, presenting Uganda’s approach to the transformation of the traditional economy into a money economy, which rests on four pillars: commercial agriculture, manufacturing, services, and ICT.

He added that regional markets are needed to complement Uganda’s economic growth, since the local market alone is too small to sustainably develop the country. He also reassured Uganda’s commitment to promoting industrial growth, improving infrastructure, and strengthening trade ties.

Stronger Ties Between Uganda and the US

The US delegation assured President Museveni that the administration of President Biden was committed to strengthening ties with Uganda. Dr. Roberts emphasized what Africa needs is not foreign aid, but rather strong infrastructure development and capacity-building processes for sustainable growth.

“I think you are going to see a marked shift in this direction, which we both agree is the right way for Africa,” said Dr. Roberts, stressing that this means investments for the future rather than short-term relief programs.

Museveni welcomed these sentiments and hailed the US for looking beyond aid dependency in Africa. He noted that Africa’s economic prosperity was pegged on improved trade relations, democracy, education, and essential services like health and transportation.

Political Federation of East Africa Underway

On the political front, President Museveni took the delegation through efforts to set up the East African Political Federation, a move he said would make the continent stronger in the world affairs arena and a critical step in the union of African states.

“This is going to be a centre of gravity for the African race in the end,” Museveni said, pointing out the long-term vision in regional political integration.

The president further called on the delegation to identify areas of capacity building, especially in trade, democracy, and infrastructure development, and said that increased access to electricity, health, and transport systems would spur economic growth and open up more avenues for citizens.

Invite to the US

The visit also came with an extended invitation to President Museveni for a working visit to the United States later this year-a big diplomatic move. He accepted the invitation, which is a manifestation of Uganda’s determination for further ties with the US.

The meeting ended on a high note, with both parties reiterating their commitments toward collaboration on areas that drive economic development and regional stability. As Uganda readies herself as an important player in the economic transformation of Africa, it will actually require cemented partnerships with world powers like the United States for such a dream to come true.