Here’s what you should be aware of:
- China has emerged as an important developmental ally for Uganda, focusing on investments in infrastructure, energy, and manufacturing sectors.
China has reaffirmed its steadfast dedication to backing Uganda and Africa, presenting itself as a reliable ally during the current uncertainties regarding Western assistance.
The Chinese Ambassador to Uganda, Zhang Lizhong, stressed that China has no intention of withdrawing its aid or economic support, unlike the United States' reassessment of its foreign assistance through USAID, which involved pausing some funds temporarily.
Ambassador Lizhong stated that "China holds the view that major powers ought to uphold their commitments and fulfill their appropriate responsibilities." He further emphasized, "No matter what happens, China intends to keep enhancing our ties with African nations such as Uganda. We believe these collaborations won’t diminish but instead grow stronger in alignment with the mutual interests of China and Africa," during a media conference held at the Kingfisher oilfields located in Kikuube District. This event underscored China’s increasing influence in Uganda via programs similar to the Belt and Road Initiative.
Key investments
China has emerged as an important developmental ally for Uganda, focusing investments in areas such as infrastructure, energy, and manufacturing sectors. According to Ambassador Lizhong, this mutual relationship stands stronger than ever before, having been upgraded to a "comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership" during last year’s Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) held in Beijing.
China is prepared to implement the ten partnership initiatives aimed at advancing modernization between China and Africa," he declared. These efforts include assisting Africa in speeding up its industrial development and modernizing agriculture. Additionally, he emphasized "offering a complete exemption from tariffs," nurturing emerging sectors such as digital technology, renewable energy, and artificial intelligence, backing community enhancement programs, improving governance knowledge exchange, and boosting Africa's presence in global matters.
" numerous Chinese investors have entered Uganda, focusing their efforts on sectors such as agribusiness, manufacturing, information and communications technology (ICT), petroleum and natural gases, renewable energy sources, and industrial zones. As of late 2024, these companies from China had injected over $800 million into the Ugandan economy and provided employment opportunities for many locals," he further stated.
One significant result of FOCAC was Uganda gaining zero-tariff access to the Chinese market for certain goods like aquatic items—such as fish maw and Nile perch—as well as dried chilies.
"Even though less than six months have passed since the FOCAC summit, China and Uganda are actively implementing several immediate results," stated Ambassador Lizhong. "These achievements include a zero-tariff policy for certain goods between our countries." He further noted, "Two agreements were inked concerning the exports of dried chilies and whitefish products from Uganda to China. These accords are now operational, with items like fish maws already entering Chinese markets," he explained.
He highlighted the growth in sesame and coffee exports, while recognizing that guidelines for perishable items such as avocados are still under development. This program offers an alternate solution following the recent suspension of the US African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).
Pledge
Ambassador Zhang highlighted China's dedication to assisting Uganda in enhancing its healthcare, agricultural practices, industrial growth, and human resource development. This support encompasses providing food assistance to Karamoja, donating antimalarial medications, and facilitating skill transfers via various training initiatives.
“We offer yearly chances for our African counterparts to visit China for brief training programs focused on sectors like agriculture, industrialization, information communication technology (ICT), and also include sessions for government officials,” he stated. The previous year saw around 600 Ugandans benefiting from these courses, with expectations that the count will rise this coming year. Through such initiatives, we aim to help them gain insights into Chinese practices and enhance their skills accordingly," he further explained.
BACKGROUND
The comments follow the announcement by President Donald Trump's administration in the United States to reassess foreign assistance provided through USAID. This was accompanied by a temporary freeze on billions of dollars in outgoing funds, putting crucial domestic industries in suspense. Specialists in international affairs and geopolitics suggest that this retreat from global engagement opens opportunities for rising world leaders to step forward.
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