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Uganda and Kenya have renewed their commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation following a high-level meeting between President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and Kenya’s High Commissioner to Uganda, H.E. Joash Maangi, held on July 28, 2025, at State House Entebbe.

The meeting focused on a range of regional matters, including cross-border trade, pastoralist-related conflicts, and territorial issues. Both leaders expressed satisfaction with the longstanding friendship between the two nations while also acknowledging the need to address recurring challenges.

One of the key issues discussed was the status of Migingo Island. President Museveni commended Kenya’s efforts in de-escalating tensions and emphasized the importance of continued cooperation for the shared benefit of both countries.

“We are happy to maintain peace and preserve our shared interests,” President Museveni stated.

Ambassador Maangi confirmed that his delegation had visited the island and engaged with local stakeholders.

“We listened to the communities and believe that many issues have been resolved through dialogue,” he said.

President Museveni also addressed the persistent nomadic conflicts within the Karamoja–Sebei–Turkana corridor. He criticized seasonal migration patterns, urging a transition to modern agricultural practices and permanent settlement as a long-term solution.

“We cannot continue operating like wild animals, moving aimlessly. We are human beings and must modernize our way of life,” he asserted.

He further proposed a cultural reconciliation event involving both governments and traditional leaders to address historical animosities.

“Our cultures have rituals for blood settlement, where reconciliation is possible through compensation. If individuals cannot afford it, then both governments and cultural institutions should jointly organise a ceremony, perhaps in Moroto,” the President suggested.

Ambassador Maangi noted that awareness campaigns were already underway in Kenya to educate communities about cross-border cooperation and peacebuilding.

“Uganda has made more progress on sensitization, but we’re catching up. The message is being understood gradually,” he said.

He also shared updates on Kenya’s efforts to streamline operations at joint border facilities, including Busia and Suam, acknowledging that there had been lapses on Kenya’s side.

“We identified weaknesses and acted immediately. Uganda remains our biggest trading partner, and we are committed to preventing any disruption in that partnership,” Maangi stressed.

The Kenyan envoy concluded by delivering warm regards from President William Ruto and reaffirmed Nairobi’s dedication to deeper regional integration and mutual cooperation.