Uganda’s Parliament has expressed concern over the absence of a documented foreign policy for Uganda, warning that the gap continues to undermine the country’s diplomatic engagements and global standing.
The Committee on Foreign Affairs, while presenting its report on the Budget and Ministerial Policy Statements for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (UgandaMFA) and allied institutions, noted that the lack of a formal foreign policy weakens Uganda’s ability to assert itself on the international stage.
Presenting the report to the House, Committee Vice Chairperson Hon. Catherine Lamwaka emphasized the urgency of developing and adopting a comprehensive foreign policy document, describing it as a strategic tool necessary for guiding Uganda’s international relations and protecting its interests abroad.
“The absence of a documented foreign policy continues to weaken our diplomacy and affects our capacity to respond to evolving geopolitical trends,” Lamwaka said.
In light of recent threats to Uganda’s diplomatic infrastructure abroad, the committee also proposed the deployment of heightened security around Uganda’s missions, particularly those located in volatile regions. Lawmakers singled out Nairobi, Kenya, as a critical location requiring immediate attention.
In June 2024, Uganda’s embassy in Nairobi was attacked and set ablaze by protestors duringbthe country’s finance bill demonstrations. The incident resulted in the destruction of property.
MPs urged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to expedite the finalization of the foreign policy framework and collaborate with security agencies to ensure Uganda’s diplomatic premises are safeguarded.
The committee also called for increased budgetary allocations to enable embassies to operate effectively and represent Uganda’s interests across political, economic, and cultural fronts.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs is expected to respond to the recommendations in the coming days.
