On July 28, 2025, Uganda’s President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni held a crucial meeting with Kenya’s High Commissioner to Uganda, H.E. Joash Maangi, at the State House in Entebbe. The talks focused on strengthening the long-standing bilateral relations between Uganda and Kenya, with a specific emphasis on cross-border issues and regional security.
Both leaders acknowledged the strong and historic ties between the two nations, while addressing some recurring challenges related to their shared border.
One key topic of discussion was the situation surrounding Migingo Island, a disputed area between Uganda and Kenya. President Museveni welcomed the High Commissioner’s update on the efforts made by Kenya to de-escalate tensions in the region. Ambassador Maangi reported on a recent visit to Migingo Island, where he engaged local leaders to resolve ongoing concerns.
Regarding cross-border security issues and conflicts related to nomadic pastoralism in the Karamoja-Sebei-Turkana corridor, President Museveni stressed the need for a significant shift in community practices. He proposed irrigation-based agriculture as a viable solution, citing the example of Israel’s success in farming in arid conditions.
President Museveni also recommended a traditional reconciliation approach for past conflicts involving security personnel, suggesting that both governments and traditional leaders collaborate to organize a settlement ceremony in Moroto.
On border management, Ambassador Maangi acknowledged laxity in some One-Stop Border Posts (OSBPs) like Busia and Suam, and assured that Kenya was taking urgent steps to rectify the situation. He emphasized Kenya’s commitment to smoother cross-border movement of people and goods and stated that Kenya would not allow any disruptions in its relationship with Uganda, which remains Kenya’s largest trading partner.
In conclusion, Ambassador Maangi expressed gratitude for Uganda’s commitment to regional cooperation and conveyed greetings from Kenyan President William Ruto.
This meeting highlights the ongoing efforts to enhance regional integration and resolve longstanding issues between two vital East African neighbors.
