Summary:
- She proposed the possibility of establishing a Memorandum of Understanding between the two institutions to facilitate the exchange of legislative knowledge among respective Members of Parliament, fostering continued development and cooperation between the two nations.
KAMPALA: Speaker Anita Annet Among has advocated for enhanced collaboration between the Parliament of Japan and the Parliament of Uganda in legislative affairs.
She proposed the possibility of establishing a Memorandum of Understanding between the two institutions to facilitate the exchange of legislative knowledge among respective Members of Parliament, fostering continued development and cooperation between the two nations.
“When we consider the socio-economic landscape, it’s undeniable that the majority of cars utilized in Uganda originate from Japan. This preference for Japanese automobiles stems from our belief that they are best suited for navigating the roads here. We extend our gratitude to the appointing authority for sending you to Uganda, and as Parliament, we assure you of our steadfast support during your tenure here. Uganda has a magnetic charm; once you experience it, you’ll find it difficult to leave,” remarked Anitah Among.
These words were spoken by Speaker Anitah Among on Tuesday, as she warmly welcomed His Excellency Sasayama Takuya, the newly appointed Japanese Ambassador to Uganda. She emphasized the timeliness of his appointment, coinciding with Uganda’s struggle against the ravages of climate change, which have led to the destruction of infrastructure such as roads and bridges, thus necessitating support for infrastructural development from Japan.
“We appreciate your arrival at this crucial juncture. Our country is currently grappling with the challenges posed by climate change, which have left our roads and schools in dire need of repair. However, with your presence and support, we are optimistic about overcoming these challenges together,” expressed Anitah Among.
Speaker Among further highlighted recent discussions concerning the Karuma Bridge in Northern Uganda, underscoring the importance of Japan’s support in addressing such issues. Additionally, she emphasized the desire for collaboration in trade and technological exchange, recognizing Japan’s advancements in technology.
In response, Japanese Ambassador Sasayama Takuya conveyed his gratitude for the warm reception he has received during his two-month tenure in Uganda. He pledged to ensure that Japan’s development aid to Uganda is distributed equitably across the country, rather than being concentrated solely in Northern Uganda, as has been the case in the past.
Takuya also expressed appreciation for a recent parliamentary resolution thanking Japan for its socio-economic contributions to Uganda through entities like the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). He commended Uganda’s natural beauty, its hospitable people, and the deep friendship he has already experienced. He reiterated Japan’s commitment to supporting Uganda’s development across various sectors, including economic development, infrastructure, education, agriculture, and healthcare, with a focus on ensuring balanced development across the nation.
“We recognize the abundant resources within Uganda, particularly its young population, who represent the nation’s future. My government and people are committed to investing in Uganda’s future generations,” affirmed Takuya.
