KAMPALA, UGANDA – Tackling non-tariff barriers (NTBs) to trade took center stage at the 2nd session of the Kenya-Uganda Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) which kicked off on May 14, 2024, in Kampala, Uganda. The meeting brought together high-level officials from both countries to address the persistent obstacles hindering cross-border trade and economic growth.
Dr. Musalia Mudavadi E.G.H, Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs of Kenya, emphasized the need to eliminate NTBs, citing their detrimental impact on bilateral trade. “Removing these barriers is crucial to unlocking the full potential of our trade relations and promoting economic integration,” he stated.
Gen Jeje Odongo, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uganda, warmly welcomed the Kenyan delegation to Uganda. He acknowledged the strong bond between Uganda and Kenya built on a solid foundation of common values, aspirations, and a shared vision for prosperity. He emphasized the importance of strengthening strategic partnership and promoting cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
“We are committed to strengthening our strategic partnership and promoting cooperation in areas of mutual interest. I am confident that if we openly discuss and appropriately resolve these constraints, we will enhance our mutual understanding, deepen our bilateral cooperation, enhance trade between our countries, and promote common prosperity for our people,” Gen Odongo said.
The JMC meeting aimed to review the implementation status of agreed commitments, consider multi-sectoral matters, deliberate on obstacles and challenges to doing business, and resolve outstanding and emerging issues. The session covered various areas, including trade and investment, immigration and customs, energy and natural resources development, defense and security, health services, standards and quality assurance, water and lands, tourism, and culture.
The meeting adopted three outcome documents: the Joint Communiqué, Agreed Minutes, and the Updated Decision Matrix, which will guide future engagements and implementation of agreed decisions. The JMC’s focus on tackling NTBs demonstrates the determination of both countries to overcome obstacles and create a more prosperous future for their citizens.
“The outcomes of this JMC session will inform the interactions between our leaders during the upcoming State Visit of President Yoweri Museveni to Kenya. We are committed to deepening our bilateral cooperation and promoting sustainable development,” Gen Odongo added.
The meeting was a follow-up to the first session held in Nairobi in March 2019. Gen Odongo expressed confidence that openly discussing and resolving constraints will enhance mutual understanding, deepen bilateral cooperation, enhance trade, and promote common prosperity.
