Uganda and Egypt to Boost Cooperation in Investment, Capacity Building and Water Resources Development.
KAMPALA, Uganda, August 5, 2025 — In a landmark moment for regional cooperation, Uganda and Egypt have concluded the Second Round of Bilateral Consultations at the Serena Hotel in Kampala, cementing a dynamic new framework to bolster collaboration in investment, capacity building, and the sustainable development of water resources. This agreement, forged through high-level dialogue, underscores the deep historical and cultural ties between the two nations and sets the stage for transformative joint initiatives that promise to enhance economic growth, regional stability, and environmental sustainability across the Nile Basin.The consultations, marked by a spirit of mutual respect and shared ambition, were led by Uganda’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Henry Okello Oryem, who commended Egypt for the enduring partnership that has already delivered impactful joint projects. Highlighting the shared history and values that bind the two nations, Oryem emphasized that the new cooperation framework will build on past successes, unlocking a broader spectrum of opportunities in sectors critical to both countries’ development. He expressed optimism that the strengthened partnership would catalyze innovative projects, fostering economic resilience and improving the quality of life for citizens in both nations. Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Badr Abdelatty, reciprocated the sentiment, praising Uganda’s proactive leadership in advancing regional peace and security—a cornerstone of stability in East Africa. Abdelatty reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to deepening ties, outlining a multifaceted agenda for cooperation. This includes protecting and promoting mutual investments, streamlining immigration processes, enhancing technical collaboration, and building capacity in key sectors such as energy, agriculture, and public administration. By aligning their expertise and resources, both nations aim to create a robust platform for sustainable development and economic diversification. A pivotal element of the new framework is the localization of Egyptian industries in Uganda, with a particular focus on pharmaceutical manufacturing, including vaccines and other critical medical products. This initiative is poised to strengthen Uganda’s health sector, reduce reliance on imports, and create jobs, while leveraging Egypt’s expertise in industrial innovation. By fostering technology transfer and local production, the partnership aims to enhance access to affordable healthcare solutions, addressing pressing public health challenges in the region. Equally significant is the commitment to joint projects along the Nile Basin, a vital lifeline for both nations. The two countries will collaborate on ambitious infrastructure initiatives, including the construction of dams to improve water storage and energy generation, groundwater harvesting to ensure sustainable water access, and mechanized irrigation systems to boost agricultural productivity. Additionally, solar energy projects will be prioritized to harness renewable energy, aligning with global sustainability goals and addressing the growing demand for clean power. These efforts reflect a shared vision of managing the Nile’s resources responsibly, balancing economic development with environmental stewardship. The consultations were enriched by the participation of Egypt’s Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Prof. Hani Sewilam, alongside other senior Egyptian officials, signaling the strategic importance of water resource management in the partnership. Their presence underscored the critical role of the Nile in shaping the developmental aspirations of both nations, with collaborative projects designed to ensure equitable access to water while fostering resilience against climate challenges. This renewed partnership between Uganda and Egypt is more than a bilateral agreement—it is a bold step toward regional integration and shared prosperity. By combining Uganda’s strategic position in East Africa with Egypt’s technical expertise and industrial capabilities, the two nations are poised to set a model for African cooperation. As they embark on this journey, the framework not only strengthens their bilateral ties but also contributes to the broader goals of peace, sustainability, and inclusive growth across the continent.
