Faith Nyasuguta
Uganda’s President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, in response to international scrutiny following human rights abuses, aimed to reassure Ugandans after the US suspended the country from a Ush40 billion(about $10.5 million) trade deal.
The move by President Joe Biden removed Uganda, along with the Central African Republic, Gabon, and Niger, from the African Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa), citing non-compliance with the agreement’s requirements. This suspension excludes Ugandan-made products from preferential treatment in the US market.
A December 2023 notice confirmed the termination, effective January 1, 2024, stating that the affected countries did not meet the specified criteria.
President Museveni, addressing the nation from Rwakitira in Western Uganda, downplayed the significance of such trade restrictions, emphasizing Uganda’s resilience as a nation of “wealth creators.”
He highlighted the unity of Ugandans as a strength capable of withstanding external economic pressures, dismissing foreign pressures as futile.
“Some of the people who get carried away by linking up with foreign interests forget our strengths. For somebody to come and say ‘unless you follow what I’m telling you I’ll not…..,’ they are really not serious,” President Museveni asserted.
He emphasized that division weakens the country, but unity allows Ugandans to overcome challenges. Museveni, accompanied by his wife Janet Museveni, stressed that foreign pressure holds no meaning, advocating for focusing on fighting corruption and regional integration.
He suggested that Uganda could trade with nations that respect them internationally.
The removal from Agoa adds to a series of sanctions Uganda has faced, including travel restrictions on top government officials and threats of aid cuts.
These measures were imposed after the passage of the Anti-Homosexuality Act, which the US deemed “retrogressive” and against human rights.
Despite the international pressures, President Museveni remains steadfast in asserting Uganda’s resilience and ability to navigate challenges independently.
Uganda’s response reflects an effort to maintain national pride and resilience in the face of external pressures.
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