Gomba, (UG):- President Yoweri Museveni Monday welcomed Kenya’s President William Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga to his farm in Kisozi, Gomba District where the leaders engaged in discussions aimed at strengthening bilateral ties between their two nations.
The meeting focused on addressing issues of mutual interest and fostering cooperation between Uganda and Kenya. President Museveni expressed his satisfaction with the discussions, highlighting the importance of maintaining a robust relationship between the neighbouring countries.
“I was happy to meet President Ruto and Rt. Hon. Odinga this afternoon at my farm in Kisozi. We discussed issues of mutual interest between our two countries. I welcome them,” President Museveni stated, underlining the significance of the diplomatic engagement.
Photos shared by President Ruto on his social handles showed the three having a discussion at a grazing field looking after cows. Museveni, their host, is known to be a pastoralist who often spends his free time looking after his cattle.
A statement by Ruto disclosed that the trio discussed, among others, the candidature of the ODM leader for African Union Commission chairmanship.
“Had the pleasure of meeting President Yoweri Museveni at his Kisozi country home in Uganda. We discussed critical issues that affect our two countries such as energy and petroleum,” Ruto said.
“Also discussed was the declared candidacy of Kenya’s former Prime Minister Raila Odinga for the Africa Union Commission chairmanship,” the Kenyan president added.
The gathering comes at a crucial time as Uganda and Kenya navigate challenges related to fuel trade. The leaders addressed these issues head-on, seeking common ground to enhance economic cooperation.
Meanwhile, Raila Odinga, who recently announced his readiness to serve as the African Union Commission Chairperson, it is believed by analysts could have discussed his vision for the continent’s future.
The leaders exchanged views on how regional collaboration could contribute to the advancement of Africa’s interests on the international stage.
Raila African Union Chairmanship ambitions
Raila on February 15 declared his interest in the AUC chairmanship seat saying he was ready for the role.
“I am inclined to accept the challenge and I am ready and I offer myself to be of service,” Raila said after holding talks with Former Nigerian president Olusegun Obasanjo at his Karen home.
Obasanjo is reported to have brokered a deal that gave birth to Bi-partisan Talks which ended anti-Ruto protests by the Azimio coalition.
The opposition had sustained protests against the Ruto regime, a move that caused instability which is a key ingredient for economic growth.
For one to be a candidate for the seat, the person must have the backing of his or her mother country.
President Ruto’s government has committed to supporting Raila to clinch the seat. In fact, Ruto further stated that Kenya and Uganda are committed to the deepening of the long-established diplomatic and economic ties between each other.
He said they are focused on bringing all the seven East African Community nations closer to their ultimate goal of forming the East African Federation.
The meeting in Kisozi marks a positive step towards resolving bilateral concerns and fostering unity in the East African region.
As Uganda and Kenya grapple with fuel trade challenges, the leaders’ commitment to open dialogue and cooperation reflects a shared determination to overcome obstacles and build a stronger foundation for future collaboration.
The outcomes of this diplomatic engagement are anticipated to have a lasting impact on the relationship between Uganda and Kenya.
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