Africa-Press – Uganda. Uganda and Kenya have reaffirmed their longstanding friendship and shared commitment to regional integration, peace and economic transformation as Kenya marked 62 years of independence during Jamhuri Day celebrations held in Kampala.
The event brought together senior government officials, diplomats, business leaders and members of the East African community to commemorate Kenya’s independence and reflect on the future of bilateral and regional cooperation.
Speaking at the celebrations, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in charge of Regional Affairs, John Mulimba, described Jamhuri Day as both a celebration of Kenya’s national journey and a reminder of the enduring bonds between the two neighbouring countries.
“This day celebrates not only Kenya’s attainment of self-rule, but also the shared values and aspirations that unite our countries,” Mulimba said.
“Over the decades, Uganda and Kenya have built a strong, resilient and evolving partnership anchored in East African Community cooperation, political dialogue and mutual trust.”
Mulimba noted that cooperation between Uganda and Kenya has continued to deepen across key sectors including trade, education, research, security, transport and development, describing cross-border collaboration as critical to regional stability and improved livelihoods.
Reflecting on Kenya’s role in Uganda’s history, Mulimba recalled periods when Kenya hosted Ugandan refugees and later supported Uganda’s economic recovery after the National Resistance Movement took power in 1986.
“Kenya has been a reliable and committed regional partner, supporting Uganda through access to its large and dynamic economy,” he said, adding that trade cooperation has directly benefited millions of people across the region.
He also highlighted joint engagement under regional and continental frameworks such as the African Union, East African Community, COMESA and IGAD, noting that these platforms have strengthened collaboration on peace, security, refugee management and cross-border trade.
Mulimba commended Kenya’s leadership in regional peace efforts, citing its contributions to peace support operations in Somalia, South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, and said Kenya’s experience in refugee management has been valuable to Uganda.
On trade, Mulimba said annual commerce between Uganda and Kenya has surpassed $1.3 billion (about Shs4.6 trillion), attributing the growth to Kenya’s conducive policy environment and shared regional priorities.
He expressed confidence that Kenya’s regional agenda would complement Uganda’s Fourth National Development Plan, which prioritises economic transformation and deeper regional integration.
Kenya’s Ambassador to Uganda, Joash Maangi, described the 62nd independence anniversary as a moment of reflection on Kenya’s journey and a reaffirmation of its commitment to regional cooperation and shared prosperity.
“Kenya’s independence was hard-won through struggle, sacrifice and unwavering determination,” Maangi said. “Our forefathers stood firm so that future generations could live in freedom and dignity.”
Maangi emphasised the strong diplomatic and economic ties between Kenya and Uganda, noting that the two countries remain among each other’s leading trading partners, with cooperation spanning trade, investment, tourism, transport and industrial development.
“Kenya remains firmly committed to strengthening this partnership, anchored in our shared history, bound by kinship across our borders and reinforced by a common vision for peace, stability and prosperity,” he said.
This year’s Jamhuri Day celebrations were held under the theme Tourism, World-Class Leisure and MICE, reflecting Kenya’s ambition to position itself as a leading destination for business and leisure tourism.
Ambassador Maangi said continued incentives, improved air connectivity and global marketing had strengthened Kenya’s tourism appeal, inviting Ugandans and regional visitors to explore the country’s diverse attractions.
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