President Faustin-Archange Touadéra of the Central African Republic (CAR) has begun a three-day official visit to Uganda, at the invitation of his counterpart, President Yoweri Museveni.
The visit underscores the growing cooperation between the two nations, particularly in the areas of security, economic development, and regional stability.
Upon arrival at State House, Entebbe, President Touadéra was warmly received by President Museveni, along with a delegation of Central African Republic ministers and senior government officials.
Their discussions focused on bilateral, regional, and international matters, reaffirming their shared commitment to peace, security, and economic cooperation.
During their meeting, the two leaders reflected on the progress made in military cooperation, particularly in Disarmament, Demobilisation, and Reintegration (DDR) processes for former members of the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA). The DDR program has been a key aspect of the Uganda-CAR partnership, given Uganda’s longstanding involvement in counter-LRA operations in Central Africa.
They also highlighted advancements in education, student exchange initiatives, and military collaboration, further cementing their close ties.
Additionally, both presidents stressed the importance of optimising the untapped natural resources in their countries and instructed their ministries of agriculture, energy, and mineral development to establish frameworks for joint development.
This move is aimed at boosting socio-economic growth for the citizens of both nations.
As part of the visit, President Touadéra will attend Uganda’s 62nd independence day anniversary celebrations in Busia, further solidifying the friendship between the two nations.
President Museveni thanked President Touadéra for accepting the invitation and for the constructive discussions that are expected to deepen cooperation across multiple sectors.
In response, President Touadéra expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality and extended an invitation to President Museveni to visit the Central African Republic, an offer Museveni graciously accepted.
Uganda-CAR relations
Relations between Uganda and the Central African Republic have steadily strengthened over the years, particularly through Uganda’s involvement in regional peace and security initiatives.
In 2009, Uganda deployed troops to the Central African Republic as part of the African Union’s mission to combat the Lord’s Resistance Army, a notorious rebel group led by Joseph Kony.
Since then, military cooperation has been a key element in the countries’ bilateral relationship.
In 2012, President Museveni visited Bangui, marking a significant step in reinforcing ties.
Uganda and CAR have since worked together on various initiatives, including educational exchanges and trade opportunities.
This most recent visit by President Touadéra is seen as an important step in continuing these efforts.
