The United Nations Resident Coordinator in Uganda, H.E. Mr. Leonard Zulu, has praised Uganda’s unwavering commitment to regional peace and humanitarian support following his meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Gen. Odongo Jeje Abubakher, on February 14 at the ministry’s headquarters.
During the meeting, Mr. Zulu expressed gratitude on behalf of the UN Secretary-General and the UN system in Uganda for the country’s vital role in facilitating humanitarian efforts, particularly in response to the recent crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
He highlighted Uganda’s instrumental role in ensuring the safe transit of over 4,000 UN personnel and their families from affected areas in the DRC, commending the government’s swift action and security measures.
“Seeing our colleagues arrive safely, processed without delays, was an immense relief,” Mr. Zulu remarked, acknowledging Uganda’s efficiency in granting clearances and authorizations. He extended special appreciation to President Yoweri Museveni and the relevant authorities for their leadership in supporting the UN’s humanitarian mission.
Hon. Odongo reaffirmed Uganda’s longstanding commitment to humanitarianism, emphasizing the country’s open-door refugee policy driven by the philosophy of “Ubuntu.”
He stressed the need for innovative solutions to prevent further crises in Eastern DRC and called for stronger international cooperation to address regional challenges.
Uganda, which currently hosts one of the largest refugee populations globally, is facing an increasing influx of displaced persons due to instability in the region.
Mr. Zulu noted that Uganda’s refugee population could soon exceed 2.2 million, with more than 1,000 new arrivals daily, further straining resources. He raised concerns over food shortages, particularly as the World Food Programme scales down its support, leading to heightened food insecurity among refugees.
Beyond humanitarian efforts, the discussion highlighted Uganda’s role in international diplomacy, including its leadership in the East African Community (EAC), the Southern African Development Community (SADC), and its chairmanship of the G77+China. Mr. Zulu also applauded Uganda’s contributions to the upcoming Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development, particularly its innovative proposal for a presidential dialogue on accelerating Agenda 2030.
Looking ahead, the UN reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Uganda’s National Development Plan (NDP IV), which seeks to mobilize $158 billion in investment.
Mr. Zulu underscored Uganda’s leadership in global financing discussions, particularly in the lead-up to the International Conference on Financing for Development