The Second Session of the Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) between the Republics of Uganda and Kenya concluded successfully on Tuesday at the Sheraton Hotel in Kampala, Uganda. The three-day event, held from May 12 to 14, marked a significant step in strengthening the deep-rooted ties between the two East African nations.
Uganda’s delegation was headed by Hon. Gen. Odongo Jeje Abubakhar, Minister of Foreign Affairs while the Kenyan delegation was led by Hon. Dr. Musalia Mudavadi E.G.H., Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs.
In a joint communique, the ministers expressed gratitude that, despite the delay caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, which had postponed the session originally scheduled for 2021, the commitment of officials from both countries ensured the meeting was finally held.
“Uganda and Kenya enjoy a common heritage and a shared history of friendship, through years of exceptional cooperation and mutual understanding. In addition to exchange of high-level visits, we have signed a number of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in various fields that have further consolidated and strengthened our relations,” Gen Odongo said.
In his remarks, Dr. Mudavadi congratulated Uganda on its successful hosting of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit and the G77 Summit earlier this year, and on assuming the chairmanship of these important organizations. Both ministers highlighted the importance of the JMC meeting as a testament to the warm, cordial, and brotherly relations between Kenya and Uganda, relations that are grounded in historical, economic, and socio-cultural ties predating the independence of both countries.
The deliberations focused on three broad areas: Foreign Affairs and Security, Economic, and Socio-Cultural sectors. Key discussions revolved around assessing the implementation of previous decisions, addressing outstanding and emerging issues, and exploring new areas of cooperation. Both ministers underscored the necessity of continuing to work together to further deepen political, economic, and socio-cultural ties.
A significant outcome of the meeting was the identification of opportunities for socio-economic transformation in both countries. The ministers emphasized the importance of resolving tariff and non-tariff barriers to promote mutual growth and development. They directed their technical officials to meet and consult regularly to address these issues.
In addition to bilateral issues, the ministers exchanged views on regional, continental, and global developments, reiterating their commitment to sustained cooperation in multilateral forums. They emphasized the importance of regular consultations on matters of candidatures, the environment, regional peace initiatives, and the United Nations.
Both Gen Odongo and Dr. Mudavadi expressed their appreciation for the warm reception and hospitality extended by their counterparts. They reiterated the need to establish a robust Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Mechanism to ensure the expeditious and full implementation of decisions made during the JMC sessions and other bilateral meetings.
The session concluded with an agreement that Kenya will host the Third Session of the JMC in 2026, with the date and venue to be determined through diplomatic channels. This commitment underscores the ongoing dedication of both countries to strengthening their bilateral relations and ensuring continued cooperation for mutual benefit.
