PHOTOS: Prof. PLO Lumumba Urges Action Over Rhetoric at Uganda Council on Foreign Relations’ NAM Dialogue

In a thought-provoking dialogue organized by the Uganda Council on Foreign Relations, held at Fairway Hotel in Kampala on Monday, November 20, 2023, renowned Pan African speaker Prof PLO Lumumba delivered a compelling address.

The dialogue centered on the theme “Opportunities and Challenges of Cooperation for Shared Affluences for the NAM in a Rapidly Changing World.”

Professor Lumumba, known for his charismatic and impassioned oratory, captured the audience’s attention as he decried the prevalent issue of unimplemented decrees across the African continent. Rather than continually making new decrees, he emphasized the urgency for Africa to focus on implementing the existing decrees to foster tangible progress.

“The number of decrees Africa makes is staggering, yet the implementation remains lacking,” Prof Lumumba asserted during his keynote address. He urged for a shift in focus towards action, emphasizing that the continent’s potential lies in execution rather than merely articulating policies.

The dialogue, attended by a gathering of distinguished personalities and intellectuals, included notable speakers such as Jacqueline Nakaiza, a respected political scientist and researcher, and Dr. Simon Feta, a prominent scholar holding a PhD in international relations.

Ms. acqueline Nakaiza, a respected political scientist and researcher

Ms. Nakaiza contributed insights on the complexities and opportunities presented by cooperation within the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) amidst the dynamic global landscape. Dr. Feta echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the need for adaptive strategies in an ever-changing world in addition to strengthening the spirit of Ubuntu.

Among the dignitaries present were esteemed figures like Gen Ivan Koreta, Ms. Maria Odido and Ambassador James Mugume.

Gen Ivan Koreta (L) interacts with Prof. PLO Lumumba at the conference

Furthermore, the European Union’s Deputy Head of Mission in Uganda, Guillaume Chartrain, added an international perspective to the dialogue, highlighting the importance of global partnerships and cooperation for shared prosperity.

Dr. Simon Feta

The session stimulated vibrant discussions and exchange of ideas, focusing on actionable strategies to leverage cooperation within the NAM framework. Participants actively engaged in exploring avenues to overcome challenges and harness opportunities for mutual benefit in an increasingly interconnected world.

European Union’s Deputy Head of Mission in Uganda, Guillaume Chartrain was also present for the dialogue

The Uganda Council on Foreign Relations’ initiative brought together a diverse array of thought leaders, policymakers, and diplomats, fostering an environment conducive to robust dialogue and the exchange of innovative ideas to navigate the complexities of global cooperation.

Ms. Maria Odido

Amb. James Mugume (R) has a word with some of the participants