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Uganda and Cuba Mark 50 Years of Diplomatic Relations; A Story of Enduring Friendship
By Alex Masereka Joel
Uganda and Cuba are commemorating fifty years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between Kampala and Havana on May 9, 1974.
In a statement released by the Embassy of Cuba in Kampala, Havana and Kampala are celebrating the 50-year milestone, emphasizing the robust health of their bilateral relations.
Over the past five decades, Cuba and Uganda have collaborated on various fronts, ranging from political cooperation to educational and sports initiatives.
“Our bilateral relations enjoy good health,” stated the statement by H.E Tania Perez Xiquez, Cuba’s ambassador to Uganda.
Ambassador Tania Perez Xiquez (L) with Uganda’s state minister for Foreign Affairs Okello Oryem
It adds, “Both countries are engaged in bilateral projects, and we have identified potential areas to further enhance cooperation, particularly in trade relations.”
The ties between the two nations have remained steadfast, with a focus on mutual support and collaboration. Notably, the Scholarships program offered by the Cuban government and the Mbarara University (MUST) Project stand out as shining examples of this partnership.
“The Cuban cooperation in MUST, initiated by the historical Cuban leader Fidel Castro and the current president His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, is approaching its 35th Anniversary in 2024,” the statement highlighted.
In recent years, efforts have been made to deepen cooperation in vital sectors such as health, education, and biotechnology.
Last year, Uganda re-opened her embassy in Havana with H.E Elizabeth Musaazi appointed as ambassador to Cuba. Previous Cuban envoys to Uganda include H.E Mr Francisco Javier Viamontes Correa and Antonio Luis Pubillones.
The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on the promotion of countertrade in January 2024 reflects the commitment of both nations to foster mutually beneficial trade relations.
“We express our gratitude to Uganda for its historical support to the Cuban Revolution,” the Embassy said, highlighting Uganda’s significant role in bolstering solidarity between the two nations.
Recent events, including Uganda’s participation in the 7th African Continental Meeting of Solidarity with Cuba and the National Meeting on Solidarity with Cuba, underscore the enduring friendship between the peoples of Cuba and Uganda.
The National Meeting on Solidarity with Cuba happened in January this in Uganda, same time Cuba was handing over chairmanship of the G77+China to Kampala.
Cuba has reaffirmed its support for Uganda’s leadership roles in the Group of 77+ China and the Non-Aligned Movement. The Embassy extended its best wishes for success in managing these responsibilities during these critical times for humanity.
President Yoweri Museveni has previously met the Historic Leader of the Cuban Revolution, El Comandante Fidel Castro and his brother Raul Castro.
Uganda and Cuba’s relationship is intertwined in revolutionary fervor. The Cuban revolution, a David-Goliath story, inspired many liberation movements across Africa including Uganda’s National Resistance Army and later Movement that propelled President to power in 1986 after a five-year protracted battle.