The 12th Uganda–Rwanda Joint Permanent Commission (JPC) has officially commenced in Kampala, bringing together senior officials from both countries to strengthen bilateral cooperation and advance shared development priorities.

The session opened at Mestil Hotel with a Senior Officials’ Meeting, where Uganda’s delegation led by Richard Kabonero welcomed the Rwandan delegation headed by Teta Gisa. The meeting reaffirmed the strong political commitment and enduring ties between the two sister republics.

Proceedings began with a moment of silence in commemoration of Kwibuka 32, honoring victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and underscoring a shared commitment to remembrance, reconciliation, and prevention.

The three-day engagement focuses on enhancing cooperation across key sectors including trade, infrastructure, defence, migration, and human capital development. Officials are also addressing emerging priorities such as climate change, cybersecurity, and innovation as both countries seek to align their strategies with evolving regional and global dynamics.

Delegates reiterated their commitment to advancing trade and investment under the East African Community, with particular emphasis on addressing trade facilitation challenges and boosting exchanges in agriculture, manufacturing, construction, and tourism.

The Commission is also reviewing the outcomes of the 11th JPC held in Kigali in 2023, while identifying new joint initiatives aimed at accelerating economic transformation and shared prosperity. Discussions are further centered on strengthening cooperation in defense and security, transboundary infrastructure, police collaboration, education, and migration management.

Convened by Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in collaboration with its counterparts in Rwanda and the Uganda High Commission in Kigali, the meeting underscores the continued political will of both nations to deepen regional integration and strengthen bilateral relations.

This year’s session is held under the theme of enhancing trade, infrastructure, and value chain linkages for economic transformation, reflecting a joint focus on practical outcomes that support sustainable growth for both countries.