Vice President Alupo Calls for Stronger Russia-Africa Cooperation in Technology and Development

Summary:

• Alupo emphasized the importance of collaboration to harness technology for global peace, security, and sustainable development.

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NEWS: The Vice President of Uganda, H.E. Jessica Rose Epel Alupo, has called for stronger international cooperation in technology and development, particularly between Russia and Africa.

Alupo made this call during her address at the 4th Eurasian Women’s Forum in St. Petersburg, where global leaders, policymakers, and experts gathered to discuss women’s roles in addressing key global issues.

Speaking under the theme “Women for Strengthening Trust and Global Cooperation,” Alupo emphasized the importance of collaboration to harness technology for global peace, security, and sustainable development.

She began by extending warm greetings from Uganda’s President, H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, and expressed gratitude to the Russian Federation for hosting the event.

Alupo praised the forum’s focus on global cooperation and highlighted the pivotal role of women in driving economic development, peace, and social equality.

Underscoring Uganda’s commitment to these objectives, she noted that the participation of Ugandan representatives reinforced the country’s dedication to addressing global challenges and fostering international partnerships.

Alupo particularly stressed the relevance of the Russian-African Women’s Dialogue, held under the theme “High Technology Era: Security and Development Issues.”

“Without peace and security, there can never be meaningful development,” Alupo said.

She pointed out that while technological advancements have improved lives globally, they also introduce complexities, especially concerning global security.

“As the world becomes increasingly connected through digital infrastructure, the risks to peace and security evolve, demanding a collective and strategic response”. Alupo said.

Alupo noted that the dialogue between Russia and African nations provides a critical platform to discuss how technology can be used for the greater good while mitigating potential threats.

She posed key questions for global leaders: “How can we harness the power of technology without compromising peace and security? How do we address the widening digital divide between the global north and south, and the gender digital disparity?”

According to Alupo, these questions must guide international discussions on technology to ensure that its benefits are shared equitably, particularly in developing nations like Uganda. She stressed the need to use technology to improve societies while safeguarding against new threats like cybercrime.

Alupo also highlighted several key areas where Uganda seeks to strengthen its cooperation with Russia and other international partners, especially in technology and development.

She emphasized the vast potential for collaboration between Russia and African countries in advancing technological solutions in fields such as digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence.

She pointed out that while technology offers powerful tools to address developmental challenges, it must be applied strategically. With new technologies come new security risks, and Alupo underscored the need for strong cybersecurity frameworks to protect national interests and maintain global stability.

The Vice President encouraged closer cooperation between Russia and African nations to share best practices and resources, especially in mitigating cyber threats. She emphasized that the integrity of digital systems is crucial for maintaining security in an evolving technological landscape.

Alupo also highlighted the potential for technology to address development challenges in Africa, particularly in healthcare, education, resource management, and infrastructure.

She stressed that technology must be tailored to meet local needs, fostering equitable development and improving the quality of life in Uganda and across Africa.