Uganda and Russia Deepen Economic, Scientific and Technical Cooperation at 3rd Intergovernmental Commission Meeting

Uganda and the Russian Federation have commenced the 3rd Session of the Uganda–Russia Intergovernmental Commission on Economic, Scientific and Technical Cooperation, a high-level meeting aimed at deepening relations between the two nations. The session, taking place at Speke Resort Munyonyo in Kampala, has drawn participation from senior government officials, business leaders, private sector representatives, and experts across key sectors.

The Commission serves as a strategic platform to enhance cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, science, technology, agriculture, energy, education, and defence. The Kampala meeting follows previous engagements held in Moscow and seeks to consolidate progress while identifying new opportunities for partnership.

Strengthening Economic and Trade Relations

One of the central discussions focuses on boosting Uganda’s exports to Russia. Ugandan officials are expected to highlight the country’s potential in agricultural products such as coffee, tea, fish, fruits, and flowers—sectors in which Uganda has comparative advantage.

According to officials from the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives, the Commission aims to diversify Uganda’s export base by identifying niche markets in Russia and promoting value-added products. Discussions will also address reducing trade barriers, encouraging joint ventures, and enhancing investment flows between the two countries. Expected outcomes from the meeting include:

Increased bilateral trade volumes.

Diversified and value-added exports from Uganda to Russia.

Development of joint industrial, agricultural, and technological projects.

Enhanced cooperation in scientific research and education exchange programs.

Defence and Security Cooperation

In the area of Defence and Security, Uganda is represented by Lt. Gen. James Mugira, Managing Director of the National Enterprise Corporation (NEC), who for the last three years has also served as Chairman of the Uganda–Russia Intergovernmental Commission on Military and Technical Cooperation.

Lt. Gen. Mugira’s participation underscores Uganda’s commitment to strengthening defence relations with Russia, focusing on capacity building, defence technology transfer, and industrial collaboration through NEC. The cooperation aims to enhance Uganda’s defence self-reliance and support regional peacekeeping capabilities.

A Broader Vision for Bilateral Growth

The Uganda–Russia partnership dates back several decades, rooted in mutual respect and non-alignment principles. Over the years, the relationship has expanded from political cooperation to encompass economic and technical collaboration.

The ongoing session builds on this momentum, emphasizing pragmatic steps toward realizing tangible benefits for both nations. The engagement also provides a platform for Ugandan entrepreneurs and business associations to network with their Russian counterparts and explore joint investment ventures in sectors such as energy, mineral development, ICT, and infrastructure.

Uganda’s Commitment to Global Partnerships

The Government of Uganda continues to position itself as an emerging investment destination, open to partnerships that align with its Vision 2040 and the Third National Development Plan (NDP III) objectives. The meeting with Russia reaffirms Uganda’s foreign policy of diversified international cooperation, promoting mutually beneficial partnerships for sustainable development.

The outcomes of this 3rd Intergovernmental Commission session are expected to shape the next phase of Uganda–Russia relations, paving the way for enhanced economic collaboration, technological exchange, and shared prosperity between the two nations.