Uganda is a landlocked country located in East Africa, bordered by five other countries: South Sudan to the north, Kenya to the east, Tanzania to the south, Rwanda to the southwest, and the Democratic Republic of Congo to the west. Despite its geographical isolation, Uganda has established strong and cooperative relations with its neighboring countries, which have proven to be crucial in promoting regional peace and stability, economic integration, and mutual development.

One of Uganda’s closest and most significant partners is Kenya. The two countries share a long history of cultural and economic ties that date back to the pre-colonial era. They have collaborated on a range of initiatives, including infrastructure development, cross-border trade, and security cooperation. Uganda and Kenya are also members of the East African Community (EAC), a regional intergovernmental organization that promotes economic integration and political cooperation among its member states. The EAC has contributed to the deepening of Uganda-Kenya relations by providing a platform for joint decision-making and collaboration on a range of issues, including trade liberalization, harmonization of customs procedures, and infrastructure development.

Uganda’s relations with Tanzania are also vital to its regional interests. The two countries share a common history and culture, and they have cooperated on several projects aimed at promoting regional integration and development. Tanzania has played a significant role in mediating regional conflicts, including those in Burundi and South Sudan. Additionally, Uganda and Tanzania have collaborated on various initiatives in the areas of energy, transport, and trade. For example, the construction of the Uganda-Tanzania pipeline, which will transport crude oil from Uganda’s oil fields to Tanzania’s Indian Ocean port of Tanga, is expected to boost regional trade and contribute to the development of both countries.

Uganda-Tanzania oil pipeline.

Uganda’s relations with Rwanda have been historically complex, with periods of tension and conflict. However, in recent years, the two countries have made significant efforts to improve their relations, culminating in the signing of a peace agreement in 2019. The agreement paved the way for the reopening of the border between Uganda and Rwanda, which had been closed since 2019 due to diplomatic tensions. Since then, Uganda and Rwanda have embarked on joint projects aimed at promoting trade, tourism, and cross-border cooperation. The improved relations between the two countries have also contributed to regional peace and stability.

President Paul Kagame and General Muhoozi Keinerugaba meeting in Kigali in January 22, 2022

Uganda’s relationship with South Sudan is also critical to its regional interests. The two countries share a long border, and Uganda has been actively involved in mediating the conflict in South Sudan, which has resulted in significant humanitarian crises. Uganda has provided humanitarian assistance to refugees fleeing the conflict, and it has also supported efforts aimed at achieving peace and stability in the country. Additionally, Uganda and South Sudan have collaborated on various projects aimed at promoting regional trade, transport, and infrastructure development.

President of South Sudan H.E Salva Kiir shaking hands with H.E Yoweri Kaguta Museveni President of Uganda

In conclusion, Uganda has established strong and cooperative relations with its neighboring countries, which have been crucial in promoting regional peace and stability, economic integration, and mutual development. Through regional organizations such as the East African Community, Uganda has worked closely with its neighbors to achieve common goals and address shared challenges. As Uganda continues to pursue its regional interests, its relationships with its neighbors will undoubtedly play a critical role in shaping the country’s future.