Entebbe, Uganda – President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni today hosted His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) at State House Entebbe.
What began as a high-level courtesy call quickly escalated into a landmark state engagement as both leaders witnessed the signing of multiple Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) across critical sectors including energy, health, infrastructure and digital transformation.
“We had good discussions focused on strengthening bilateral relations,” President Museveni wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “I welcome him.”
The diplomatic meeting marked by cordial warmth and strategic ambition, culminated in the signing of MOUs that insiders say could unlock billions in investment, fast-track development goals and position Uganda as a vital hub for UAE’s African economic strategy.
These deals come at a time when Uganda is aggressively courting non-Western powers to diversify its economy and build a “resilient, Pan-African development model.”
The UAE has rapidly emerged as one of Africa’s most strategic investors, leveraging its sovereign wealth, infrastructure expertise, and tech-forward governance to influence regional economies.
For Uganda, this visit wasn’t just diplomatic, it was symbolic. It underscored Kampala’s pivot towards deeper South–South cooperation especially as Western development financing continues to shrink and geo-economic competition intensifies.
While the deals themselves grabbed headlines, the eyes of the visit also spoke volumes. As President Museveni prepares to solidify his legacy amid growing domestic criticism and mounting pressure over human rights, hosting a Gulf royal family member sends a clear message; Uganda is not isolated and it has options.
The UAE’s non-interventionist diplomacy makes it a preferred ally for many African governments navigating complex domestic realities without the finger-wagging often associated with Western aid.
For ordinary citizens, the implications are huge. Uganda is grappling with youth unemployment, strained health systems and a digital divide. These MOUs, if implemented, could mean more jobs in construction, IT and energy sectors.
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