Uganda’s Ambassador Richard Kabonero emphasized the nation’s dedication to regional integration and economic transformation during the Northern Corridor Integrated Projects (NCIPs) meetings in Kigali, Rwanda.
Speaking at the Single Customs Territory (SCT) and Immigration, Tourism, Trade and Services (ITTLS) cluster meetings, Kabonero, who is Uganda’s National Coordinator for the NCIPs, congratulated Rwanda on the successful conclusion of its recent presidential elections. He underscored the importance of removing trade barriers and enhancing infrastructure to facilitate regional trade within the Northern Corridor.
Kabonero praised Rwanda’s leadership in hosting the meetings and highlighted significant progress in projects such as the Standard Gauge Railway and ICT Infrastructure Development. Transitioning to the ITTLS cluster, he reiterated Uganda’s commitment to the NCIPs, focusing on directives aimed at boosting regional integration through improved trade, immigration, tourism, and labor services.
He stressed the urgency of implementing these directives to achieve substantial economic benefits for all member states. “In our pursuit of regional integration and economic transformation through the NCIPs, Uganda remains steadfast in fostering collaboration and eliminating barriers to trade. Together with our regional partners, we are committed to realizing tangible benefits that will uplift the livelihoods of our people,” Kabonero stated.
The Uganda delegation, led by Kabonero, included Amb. Gen. Robert Rusoke, High Commissioner of Uganda to Rwanda, Deputy High Commissioner Amb. Margaret Kedisi, and officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Uganda Revenue Authority, and the Ministry of Trade.
As Uganda prepares to host upcoming meetings for other NCIPs clusters, Kabonero expressed the country’s readiness to report concrete deliverables at the 15th Summit, showcasing the progress made since these initiatives began in 2018.
