Mozambique dangles visa exemption carrot in Uganda’s face

As the second session of the Uganda-Mozambique Joint Permanent Commission (JPC) began in Kampala, Mozambique has proposed a significant visa exemption for citizens of both countries. The discussions, hosted at Mestil Hotel, saw Mozambique present a draft proposal aimed at removing visa requirements for Ugandan and Mozambican citizens.

Addressing the media, Col. Geoffrey Kambere, the Commissioner for Immigration Control at Uganda’s Ministry of Internal Affairs, revealed that the visa exemption proposal is one of many topics set for discussion during the two-day event.

“They have presented a draft on visa exemption, and it is now up to the Ugandan government to decide whether to adopt this understanding, which seeks to remove visa fees for Mozambicans traveling here,” Col. Kambere stated.

Currently, citizens of both nations are required to pay visa fees. However, Mozambique’s proposition seeks to eliminate this requirement for all passport holders, whether diplomatic, official, or ordinary.

“They are saying, ‘We are Africans, why should we continue with these fees?’ Their proposal is fascinating because it encompasses all passport classes,” Col. Kambere added.

The proposal is under review by Uganda’s legal experts, but Col. Kambere noted that adopting the visa exemption could potentially boost visitor numbers between the two countries, enhancing both tourism and business exchanges.

Historical relations

Uganda and Mozambique share a deep-rooted history dating back to Uganda’s liberation struggles. Mozambique’s FRELIMO played a pivotal role in shaping Uganda’s Front for National Salvation (FRONASA), which later formed part of the foundation of the National Resistance Army (NRA) and subsequently the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF).

In 1976, Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni led 28 FRONASA youth for military training at Montepuez Barracks in Mozambique. These individuals would later play critical roles in Uganda’s liberation war, which culminated in the NRA’s victory and capture of power.

Bilateral relations were formalized through the establishment of the Joint Permanent Commission Framework in 1987.

Bilateral relations were formalized through the establishment of the Joint Permanent Commission Framework in 1987. The first session of the JPC was held in Maputo in 1988. In 2018, the two countries signed a Framework Agreement on Cooperation during President Museveni’s visit to Maputo. Mozambican President Filipe Jacinto Nyusi reciprocated with a state visit to Uganda in 2022.

Strengthening economic ties

At the opening ceremony of the JPC session, Uganda’s Ambassador to Mozambique, Gen. Fred Mwesigye, emphasized the need for stronger ties that would yield tangible benefits for the citizens of both nations.

“We need results that improve the social and economic welfare of our citizens. Mozambicans and Ugandans should be able to trade freely and easily. There is potential for trade in cereals, dairy products, and skilled labor between our nations,” Gen. Mwesigye remarked.

He added that the commission’s discussions would explore these avenues to enhance economic cooperation and facilitate easier business exchanges.

With visa-free travel on the table, the Uganda-Mozambique partnership could take a significant step forward, bolstering trade, tourism, and diplomatic ties.