The United Nations Resident Coordinator in Uganda, H.E. Leonard Zulu, paid a courtesy call to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Gen. Odongo Jeje Abubakher, at the ministry headquarters on Friday. The meeting focused on Uganda’s critical role in facilitating humanitarian operations, particularly in response to the ongoing crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
On behalf of the UN Secretary-General and the UN system in Uganda, Mr. Zulu expressed deep appreciation for Uganda’s swift action in providing safe transit for UN personnel and their families fleeing conflict-affected areas, including Goma, Bukavu, North Kivu, and South Kivu. Over 4,000 transits were processed smoothly, with necessary clearances and security measures ensured by the Ugandan government.
“Seeing our colleagues arrive safely, processed without complications, was a moment of immense relief,” said Mr. Zulu, emphasizing Uganda’s efficiency in border coordination and security arrangements. He extended gratitude to President Yoweri Museveni and all officials involved in the operation.
Hon. Odongo reaffirmed Uganda’s humanitarian commitment, guided by the “Ubuntu” philosophy, which underpins the country’s open-door refugee policy. “As part of humanity, we must always do our utmost to ensure the safety and health of our fellow human beings,” he stated, urging for collective international efforts to resolve the crisis in Eastern DRC.
Mr. Zulu acknowledged Uganda’s leadership on regional and global platforms, including the East African Community (EAC), Southern African Development Community (SADC), and as chair of the G77+China. He noted that Uganda currently hosts the largest refugee population in the world, with numbers projected to reach 2.2 million due to ongoing instability in the DRC.
Highlighting challenges faced by refugees, including food shortages due to reduced World Food Programme (WFP) support, Mr. Zulu emphasized the need for additional global assistance. He also commended Uganda’s diplomatic efforts in preparing for the upcoming Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development and its innovative proposal for a presidential dialogue on achieving Agenda 2030.
The UN Resident Coordinator reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to supporting Uganda’s National Development Plan IV (NDP IV), which aims to mobilize $158 billion for development initiatives. Uganda’s leadership will be instrumental in shaping global discussions on financing for development, including the International Conference on Financing for Development in Spain this July.
In closing, Mr. Zulu conveyed the appreciation of 29 UN agencies working in Uganda for the government’s continued support, particularly in responding to the Ebola outbreak. He reaffirmed the UN’s dedication to collaborating with Uganda on humanitarian and development priorities to ensure long-term regional stability.
