The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs (International Affairs), Hon. Oryem Henry Okello, held a high-level meeting with H.E. Amokrane Mourad, the Ambassador of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria to Uganda, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters in Kampala on Friday.
During the discussions, both sides commended the enduring friendship and cooperation between Uganda and Algeria, describing it as a partnership built on mutual respect and shared interests. Hon. Oryem noted that the relationship is steadily gaining momentum, particularly in the areas of trade and investment.
Uganda’s exports to Algeria have grown significantly, with powdered milk topping the list—400 tonnes already supplied. Coffee exports are also expanding, with four Ugandan companies actively engaged in the Algerian market. Hon. Oryem described this as a clear indication of Uganda’s growing role in North African markets and its potential to benefit from the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Ambassador Mourad praised Uganda for its active participation in the upcoming Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF 2025) in Algeria. He highlighted Uganda’s exhibition of agricultural products, innovations, and value-added goods as a demonstration of the country’s competitive potential in regional and continental trade.
On the development front, the two dignitaries welcomed the recently concluded Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ministers of Finance of both countries. The agreement will facilitate the extension of Katakwi Hospital, with construction expected to commence in four months. Hon. Oryem underscored that the project will not only improve health service delivery but also stand as a testament to the practical impact of Uganda-Algeria cooperation.
Education also featured prominently in the discussions, with opportunities for Algerian government scholarships to Ugandan students identified as a priority. This initiative is expected to enhance knowledge exchange, build professional skills, and strengthen people-to-people relations.
Both Hon. Oryem and Ambassador Mourad reaffirmed their commitment to broadening bilateral cooperation across key sectors including trade, health, and education. They emphasized that such partnerships will deliver tangible benefits to the citizens of both nations, while also contributing to regional integration and development on the African continent.
