KAMPALA: Vice President Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo has encouraged Ethiopian investors to explore opportunities in Uganda, particularly in agro-processing, value addition, industrial development, and cross-border trade facilitation.
“As we look to the future, there is immense potential to deepen our cooperation. We must continue to strengthen trade and investment, enhance connectivity, and promote people-to-people exchanges. Our young populations, rich cultures, and strategic locations position us well to harness new opportunities for mutual growth,” she said.
Alupo stressed that, as members of the broader East African and African economic community, the countries are well positioned to leverage frameworks such as the African Continental Free Trade Area to expand market access, reduce trade barriers, and stimulate investment.
She, however, noted that while bilateral trade between the two countries is still modest, it continues to show encouraging growth and strong potential for expansion.
Uganda’s exports to Ethiopia have reached approximately US$21.9 million, largely driven by petroleum products, alongside dairy, processed foods, and manufactured goods. This reflects Uganda’s growing role as a reliable regional supplier within interconnected economies.
On the other hand, Uganda’s imports from Ethiopia stand at about US$1 million, comprising mainly agricultural products, textiles, and light manufactured goods.
Alupo said these trade flows highlight the complementary nature of the two economies, where each country brings unique strengths to the partnership.
She made the remarks during celebrations marking the 130th anniversary of the Victory of Adwa and 65 years of diplomatic relations between Ethiopia and Uganda.
The colourful event, which attracted diplomats, ministers, and members of Parliament, among other dignitaries, was held at Kololo Independence Grounds on March 22, 2026.
On behalf of the Government of the Republic of Uganda and on her own behalf, Alupo extended greetings and heartfelt congratulations to the Ethiopian people as they celebrated the 130th anniversary of the Victory of Adwa and 65 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
“I salute the Victory of Adwa, as it remains one of the most defining moments in African and global history. It stands as a powerful symbol of resilience, unity, and the unwavering determination of a people to defend their sovereignty and dignity,” she said.
She added that at a time when much of Africa was under colonial domination, the triumph at Adwa sent a clear and resounding message—that freedom, self-determination, and national pride are inalienable rights of all nations.
The Vice President said relations between Uganda and the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia date back to the pre-independence period and called upon all to reflect on this important milestone—the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. She noted that over the decades, the two nations have nurtured a relationship grounded in mutual respect, solidarity, and shared aspirations for peace, stability, and prosperity.
“Our partnership has evolved over the years, expanding across political, economic, and cultural spheres. We have stood together in regional and continental forums, championing the principles of Pan-Africanism, cooperation, and collective progress,” she said.
She highlighted that Uganda’s collaboration within regional mechanisms has contributed to advancing peace and integration across East Africa and beyond.
“Over the past decades, a number of countries in the Great Lakes region and the Horn of Africa have experienced conflicts. Uganda has played a central role in finding solutions to many of these conflicts. I am happy to state that Ethiopia has been a major ally in our efforts to stabilize the region,” she said.
She added that the bond between the two countries has been further strengthened by shared values of resilience and determination. Just as Ethiopia demonstrated at Adwa, Uganda too has shown steadfast commitment in shaping its own path of development and stability.
“Together, we embody the spirit of an Africa that is confident, united, and forward-looking,” Alupo said.
The Vice President informed the gathering that Uganda has embarked on economic transformation with the objective of achieving middle-income status in the near future.
“Our main focus is on elements that can bring about tangible economic growth, such as physical infrastructure, utilization of natural resources, and investment in human capital and innovation,” she said.
Alupo further noted that Ethiopia is one of the countries Uganda is closely cooperating with to achieve its economic transformation.
Etsegenet Bezabih Yimenu, Ambassador of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, paid tribute to the sacrifices of the patriots who fought at Adwa and urged present-day Ethiopians to sustain the nation through unity, collective effort, and a commitment to overcoming poverty, division, and backwardness.
She hailed the triumph at Adwa as an enduring source of inspiration for Ethiopia’s defence forces and a symbol of African unity and resilience. She also applauded the continued friendship between the Republic of Uganda and the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia.
