India, Uganda Hold 3rd Joint Trade Committee Meeting To Boost Ties

The Third Session of the India-Uganda Joint Trade Committee (JTC) was held in New Delhi on March 25-26, 2025, marking a significant step towards enhancing economic relations between the two countries after a 23-year hiatus. The meeting, as highlighted in a press release from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, underscored the commitment of both nations to expand and diversify their bilateral trade, which currently does not reflect their full potential.

During the discussions, key sectors were identified for boosting trade and investment, including minerals, coffee, cocoa products, pulses, spices, dairy products, essential oils, plastic raw materials, fruits, vegetables, and residual chemical products. Additionally, cooperation in areas such as mining, banking, digital infrastructure, MSME development, health care, pharmaceuticals, electric vehicles, critical minerals—particularly Rare Earth Elements (REE)—and petrochemicals was prioritized.

Both India and Uganda agreed to explore various Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at enhancing collaboration in several sectors. These include the recognition of the Indian Pharmacopoeia and partnerships in public works and infrastructure, agriculture and allied sectors, traditional medicine, and telemedicine. Strengthening ties in standardization and investment promotion was also a focal point of the discussions.

Ajay Bhadoo, Additional Secretary from India's Department of Commerce, emphasized the deep economic ties between India and Uganda during his address at the inaugural session. He pointed out the growing partnership in trade and investment and highlighted the importance of collaboration in sectors such as e-commerce, MSME cluster development, pharmaceuticals, solar energy, and rural electrification.

The JTC meeting was co-chaired by Priya P Nair from India and Ambassador Elly Kamahungye Kafeero from Uganda's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Ugandan delegation included 28 members representing various ministries and Uganda's diplomatic mission in India. The discussions were characterized by a cordial atmosphere with both sides expressing strong interest in deepening their trade and investment cooperation.

As part of their visit to India, the Ugandan delegation also toured the Noida Special Economic Zone (SEZ) to gain insights into India's industrial and export ecosystem. The deliberations at this session of the JTC were seen as forward-looking and indicative of a robust and growing economic partnership between India and Uganda.

ANI

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Africa is Strong with Political, Social & Economic Strength, Museveni Tells Visiting Indian Army Officers

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni last evening delivered a lecture of opportunity to the visiting army officers from the National Defence College of India who called on him at State House Entebbe.

The officers interacted with the President on the issues of local and strategic significance.

The 16 officers who arrived in Uganda on 26th May, 2024, are on a study tour in the country and they have since had an opportunity to interact with different high ranking officials from various departments and ministries.

During the lecture, President Museveni engaged officers with the history of Africa as well as the historical mission of the National Resistance Movement (NRM).

“When I see people from other parts of the world, my mind wants to give you information about Africa. Africa is a very strong continent with a lot of political, social and economic strength. It also has a lot of natural resources, but we had a problem of organisation by our kings who let us down,” he explained.

The President pointed out three dimensional mistakes done by the past political leaders and classified them as philosophical, ideological as well as strategic, saying that these wasted a lot of time and later suppressed the people.

President Museveni also explained to the visiting Indian army officers about the three main strategic approaches of NRM singling out prosperity, strategic security and brotherhood of African people who are linked by languages as the core historical mission of the NRM.

“We have been struggling to unite Africa, there has been deliberate efforts. We emphasised the issue of interest rather than identity to be able to address the issue of prosperity,” he explained.

He added that there is a need for the officers and everyone to understand the core roles of the four principles of NRM which include Patriotism, Pan-Africanism, socio-economic transformation and democracy.

The High Commissioner of India to Uganda, H.E Mr. Upender Singh Rawat thanked the President for all the support to the Indian community in Uganda.

He hailed the relationship between India and Uganda.

The Joint Staff- Training and Doctrine in UPDF, Brig. Gen. Alex Olupot and the receiving General of the delegation noted that the

delegation has toured some important tourist destinations of Uganda since their arrival including the source of the Nile, the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and National Defence college of Uganda, among others.

The delegation was also accompanied by the Indian Military Advisory Training Team (IMATT) at the Senior Command and Staff College -Kimaka, Brig. BS Fogat.

(With Agency Inputs)

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MEA Secretary Dammu Ravi's Visit To Rwanda, Uganda, And Kenya Set For April 7-12

New Delhi: Dammu Ravi, the Secretary of the Ministry of External Affairs (Economic Relations), will embark on a visit to Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya from April 7-12, accompanied by the Additional Secretary (East and Southern Africa), Puneet R Kundal.

During the visit to Rwanda, the MEA Secretary (ER) will represent the Government of India at the event marking the 30th commemoration of the 1994 Rwanda Genocide (Kwibuka 30) on April 7.

"He is also expected to hold meetings with Ministers and senior officials of the Government of Rwanda," the Ministry of External Affairs said in a press release.

"Secretary (ER) will thereafter travel to Uganda from April 8-9 leading a 35-member multi-sector business delegation that aims to increase trade and commercial ties between the two countries," the release added.

Additionally, he will also meet with ministers and officials of the Ugandan government, besides chairing a business session comprising captains of Indian and Ugandan industry. He is also expected to interact with the Indian community in Uganda.

Furthermore, the press release disclosed that "Secretary (ER) will then travel to Kenya heading a large delegation comprising officials from the Ministry of Agriculture, Indian agricultural companies and business chambers from April 10-12."

This visit will fulfill the decision taken in the meeting between Prime Minister Modi and the President of Kenya during his visit to India in December 2023.

The delegation will, interalia, explore the possibility of agricultural farming in Kenya.

"Dammu Ravi will also be chairing a business session comprising Indian and Kenyan companies besides having meetings with Ministers and officials of the Government of Kenya. He will also be meeting with members of the Indian community in Kenya," the release added.

The visit by the Secretary (ER) is a reaffirmation of India's commitment to further strengthen its ties of friendship with Rwanda, Uganda and Kenya and to maintain the momentum of high-level contacts between India and countries in Africa, post the entry of the African Union (AU) as a permanent member of the G20 during the Indian Presidency.

This report is auto-generated from a syndicated feed

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India Ready To Share Experiences On Leveraging Technology To Transform Governance: MoS Muraleedharan

Kampala: Union Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs V Muraleedharan on Monday expressed India's willingness to share its experiences on leveraging technology to transform governance. He noted that India's digital governance has offered "scalable, secure and inclusive solutions for making governance more efficient, inclusive, faster and transparent."

While addressing the plenary session of the Third South Summit in Uganda, Muraleedharan said, "India is ready to share its experiences on leveraging technology to transform governance. India's Digital Public Infrastructure offers scalable, secure and inclusive solutions for making governance more efficient, inclusive, faster and transparent."

He noted that India has "walked the talk" when it comes to South-South cooperation. Muraleedharan stated that India has supported capacity building and development for partners from the Global South.

Muraleedharan stated, "India shares its development experience with the Global South through the Indian Technical and Economic Co-operation (ITEC) Program, which now extends to 160 partner countries. Every year, around 14000 scholarships are offered in 800 courses across 200 premier Indian Institutions."

"The India-UN Development Partnership Fund currently supports 76 development projects in 54 countries," he added.

He said that India became the first nation to announce a duty-free trade preference scheme for Least Developed Countries (LDCs) with the aim of providing market access to LDC goods.

Highlighting India's efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic, he said, "During the COVID-19 pandemic, our 'Vaccine Maitri' initiative supported more than 100 countries with India made vaccines. India's Co-WIN platform was offered as a digital public good for effective vaccination campaigns."

He stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi formally launched the Global DPI Repository at the second Voice of the Global South Summit in November 2023 along with a social impact fund of USD 25 million to fast-track the implementation of DPI in developing countries.

Speaking about India's efforts, he said, "India's initiatives of the International Solar Alliance (ISA), the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) and the Global Biofuels Alliance are further examples of India's solution-oriented approach to addressing the challenges of clean and renewable energy and disaster resilience, particularly in developing countries."

He stated that the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) awarded 11 projects across 13 Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to enhance disaster and climate resilience in infrastructure systems under the Infrastructure for Resilient Island States initiative.

He further said, "India, along with Brazil and South Africa, also has an active partnership with the UNDP for fruitful South-South Cooperation to assist developing countries, mainly LDCs. Currently, it is supporting 42 projects in 36 countries with a budget of USD 46.7 Million."

He stated that India is one of the fastest-growing major economies of the globe today. He said, "India's experience shows that a diverse and populous country can embrace democracy to achieve human-centric, inclusive and sustainable economic growth and development."

While concluding his remarks, he spoke about Prime Minister Narendra Modi's message which said, "India will always stand with our friends and partners from the Global South, to work together towards building an inclusive growth story for our future generations."

In his address, h highlighted the diversity and unity of the Group of 77 (G77), bringing together nations from diverse geographies, economies, and political systems. The Minister stressed that the Global South, with its youthful demography and rapidly growing economies, holds the key to the world's future prosperity.

"Across diverse geographies, economies, regions and political systems, the Group largely brings together the Global South to address the challenges of our times. The Global South today, having the youngest demography and some of the fastest growing economies is the future growth engine for the world," he said.

Muraleedharan also said that the "third South Summit is being looked upon with a lot of expectations." The way forward for us, as a Group, is to focus on the achievement of the SDGs, with highest priority accorded to the eradication of poverty, he said.

Taking to X, Muraleedharan stated, "Delivered India statement at the 3rd South Summit in Kampala, Uganda. Highlighted importance of Global South as future growth engine of the world. Emphasized need for South-South Cooperation for finding innovative solutions for achievement of SDGs & addressing future challenges."

"Spoke on India's commitment to making international organizations more inclusive & supporting capacity building & development for our partners Advocated early operationalization of Open ended Working Group to strengthen working methods of G77," he added.

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MoS Muraleedharan Watches 'Pran Pratishtha' Ceremony Virtually With Indian Community Members In Uganda

Kampala: Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs V Muraleedharan watched the Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha ceremony virtually along with thousands of Indian community members at the Shree Sanatan Dharma Mandal in Uganda on Monday.

"Historic. Joined thousands of Indian community members in Uganda to witness the #PranPratishthaRamMandir at Shree Sanatan Dharma Mandal," the MoS wrote on 'X'.

Meanwhile, Canadian Member of Parliament Chandra Arya also watched the ceremony virtually, along with several hundred devotees at the Ottawa Hindu Temple.

"Along with several hundred devotees at the Ottawa Hindu Temple, I celebrated the historic occasion of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla that took place in the magnificent Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, India," the Canadian MP wrote on 'X'.

"Pratishtha is an act which transforms an idol into a deity giving it the capacity to accept prayers. The Ram Mandir inauguration was done by India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi," he said.

The idol of Ram Lalla was unveiled on Monday at Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple in Ayodhya in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

PM Modi led rituals at the Pran Pratishtha ceremony in the sanctum sanctorum of the grand temple.

Indian Air Force (IAF) choppers showered flower petals over Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple premises in Ayodhya as the idol of Ram Lalla was unveiled.

Devotees and guests chanted 'Jai Shree Ram' as the ceremony was held.

RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and state Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath were also present at the ceremony.

Prime Minister Modi will interact with shramjeevis associated with the construction of Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir. He will also visit the Kuber Tila, where the ancient mandir of Bhagwan Shiv has been restored.

The magnificent Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir is constructed in traditional Nagara style. Its length (east-west) is 380 feet; width 250 feet and height is 161 feet; and is supported by a total of 392 pillars and 44 doors. The pillars and walls of the temple showcase intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities, gods, and goddesses.

In the main sanctum sanctorum at ground floor, the childhood form of Bhagwan Shri Ram (the idol of Shri Ramlalla) has been placed.

The main entrance to the Mandir is situated on the eastern side, which can be approached by ascending 32 stairs through the Singh Dwar. There are a total of five Mandaps (Halls) in the Mandir - Nritya Mandap, Rang Mandap, Sabha Mandap, Prathana Mandap and Kirtan Mandap. Near the Mandir is a historic well (Sita koop), dating back to the ancient era.

In the southwestern part of the Mandir complex, at Kuber Tila, the ancient Mandir of Bhagwan Shiv has been restored, along with the installation of a statue of Jatayu.

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At NAM Summit, Ugandan President Recalls Contribution of Indian Diaspora To His Country's Economic Landscape

Kampala: At the 19th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit in Kampala, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni expressed admiration for the substantial contributions made by Indian returnees to the economic development of his country.

Commending their noteworthy accomplishments, he said, "I was asking people how many factories have been built by our Indian returnees. They told me about the 900 factories that they had built since they came back."

Reflecting on Uganda's historical events, particularly the expulsion of Asians, primarily Indian Ugandans, during Idi Amin's regime, President Museveni openly acknowledged the mistakes made by the government.

He said, "NAM countries also sometimes make mistakes like here in Uganda." He recounted the adverse consequences of Amin's actions, including the economic impact on his country. India during Amin's time had cut ties with his regime due to his actions.

President Museveni noted the adverse impact of Amin's decisions on the country's economy, saying, "You had a leader of a NAM country undermining his own economy." The expelled individuals were actively involved in various sectors, including sugar, hotels, and steel production.

Expressing remorse, the president lamented the lost opportunities for growth and development during that tumultuous period. President Museveni reflected on the measures undertaken by the Ugandan government to address and rectify past injustices.

"So therefore it is very crucial that we study very carefully the issue of the investment climate in our respective countries. When we kicked out all these people and we came into government, we brought back, we gave back the properties of our Asian citizens and non-citizens that Idi Amin had taken. We gave them back. We had a hot debate in parliament, some people saying this. We said, no, they must get back their properties. And they got their properties," he added.

At the outset of his address, he also recognised India's pivotal role in the establishment of the NAM group and the nation's participation in the inaugural NAM summit in Belgrade in 1961.

"This group of countries, accounts for 4.46 billions of people of the World. It was started by our far-sighted elders in the persons of Sukarno of Indonesia, Pt Jawaharlal Nehru of India, Nasser of Egypt and Chou En Lai of China," he said.

The first summit of NAM took place in Belgrade, Yugoslavia, in 1961 and was attended by: Afghanistan, Algeria, Burma, Cambodia, Ceylon, Congo, Cuba, Cyprus, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guinea, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Lebanon, Mali, Morocco, Nepal, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Tunisia, United Arab Republic, Yemen and Yugoslavia, the President of Uganda said.

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EAM Jaishankar Discusses Ongoing Gaza Conflict With His Palestinian Counterpart In Kampala

Kampala: On the sidelines of the NAM summit in Uganda, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with his Palestinian counterpart Riyad al-Maliki on Saturday and held a comprehensive discussion on the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

In conversation with the Palestinian leader, EAM reiterated India's support for a two-state solution and also exchanged views on humanitarian and political dimensions

Taking to X, EAM shared about his meeting with the leader saying, "Good to meet with Palestinian FM Dr. Riyad al-Maliki in Kampala this afternoon. Had a detailed and comprehensive discussion on the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Exchanged views on its humanitarian and political dimensions. Reiterated India's support for a two-state solution. Agreed to remain in touch."

Earlier today, EAM Jaishankar called on Sri Lanka President Ranil Wickremesinghe in Ugandan capital, Kampala.

"Pleased to call on Sri Lankan President @RW_UNP on the sidelines of the NAM Summit in Kampala," Jaishankar posted from his official X handle on Saturday.

"Appreciate his continued guidance for the advancement of our bilateral initiatives. India's commitment is reflected in our Neighbourhood First and SAGAR policy," the EAM added.

In a series of bilateral meetings and engagements at the ongoing NAM summit in Uganda, Jaishankar met with his counterparts from Bolivia, Azerbaijan, Venezuela, Serbia and Behrain on Friday.

In his meetings with the leaders, Jaishankar exchanged views on regional and global issues and discussed bilateral relations.

The EAM also called on Bahrain's Foreign Minister Dr Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani and held discussions on ongoing developments in the region.

"Always good to meet Bahraini FM Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani. Discussed ongoing developments in the region," Jaishankar posted from his X handle.

Jaishankar also shared the key takeaways from his meeting with the Venezuelan FM saying, "Good meeting with Venezuelan FM @yvangil. Discussed our economic, energy and development cooperation. Exchanged views on regional and global issues."

During a sit-down with his Azerbaijan counterpart, EAM Jaishankar discussed bilateral relations and regional matters.

He also held a meeting with Bolivian Foreign Minister Celinda Sosa Lunda, with the discussions centering around cooperation in the development and traditional medicine.

The EAM also shared glimpses from the 19th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit, which commenced here on Friday.

The External Affairs Minister has been holding meetings with various foreign dignitaries at the two-day summit.

Jaishankar is leading the Indian delegation at the SuThe 19th NAM Summit under Uganda's leadership. The event this year, themed on 'Deepening Cooperation for Shared Global Affluence', has brought together delegates from more than 120 developing countries on a platform of crucial historic significance.

The NAM is a forum of 120 countries not formally aligned with or against any major power bloc.

India wholeheartedly supports Uganda's theme for NAM and looks forward to engaging with the countries in the bloc, the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement earlier, adding that as one of the leading and founding members of NAM, India remains committed to the principles and values of the movement.

In Kampala, Jaishankar also met Maldivian Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer, with the two leaders exchanging views on the ongoing high-level discussions on the withdrawal of Indian military personnel. They held further discussions to expedite the completion of ongoing development projects in the Maldives and cooperation within SAARC and NAM.

Jaishankar also called on Angolan Foreign Minister Tete Antonio and held discussions on the expanding collaboration between the two countries as well as the broader India-Africa cooperation.

"Good meeting with Angolan FM @amb_tete. Discussed the expanding India-Angola and India-Africa cooperation. Also spoke about cooperation in multilateral fora. Thanked him for extending visa-free arrangement for Indian nationals," Jaishankar posted from his X handle.

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India Gifts Buses, Ambulances, Tractors, Assorted Flags To Uganda Ahead of NAM Summit

Kampala: In a warm gesture, India has gifted 10 executive buses, 5 ambulances, 10 tractors and 2664 flags/flag poles to Uganda ahead of the NAM (Non-aligned Movement) contact group summit, which will take place in Kampala this month.

It will be the 19th Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement, which will be held this month.

In a post on social media platform X, the High Commissioner of India to Uganda wrote, "On behalf of Govt. of India gifted 10 executive buses, 5 ambulances, 10 tractors and 2664 flags/flag poles promised by EAM @DrSJaishankar to @GenJejeOdongo, Minister of Foreign Affairs @UgandaMFA, to support Ugandan side to host @NAM_Uganda & @G77Summit_Ug Summits."

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uganda wrote on X, "The MFA @GenJejeOdongo

received a donated consignment of buses, ambulances, tractors and assorted flags for @NAM_Uganda and @G77summit_Ug plus observer nations and international organizations from the Republic of India at the Ministry Head quarters in Kampala -Uganda."

"The items were delivered by the High Commissioner of India to Uganda, H.E Upender Singh Rawat ahead of the two Summits due for 15-20th and 21st &22nd January 2024 respectively at Speke Resort Hotel, Munyoyo -Kampala," it added.

Uganda was endorsed to chair the Non-Aligned Movement on behalf of Africa for the period from 2022 to 2025.

Notably, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visited Uganda in April last year and discussed cooperation in trade and investment, infrastructure, energy, defence, health, digital and agricultural domains.

"Discussed cooperation in trade & investment, infrastructure, energy, defense, health, digital and agricultural domains. Congratulated Uganda on assuming the chairship of the NAM and affirmed our strong coordination at multilateral forums including the United Nations," Jaishankar wrote on X.

The NAM chair position rotates every three years during summit conferences. The chair of the movement is assisted by both the former and incoming chairs. According to the movement, this structure represents its past, present and future.

Azerbaijan chaired the NAM for the period between 2019 to 2022 having taken over from Venezuela.

The Non-Aligned Movement was formed in 1961 during the end of the colonial system and the independence struggles globally and at the height of the Cold War.

The NAM is composed of 120 member states from the developing world and is the largest forum for political coordination and consultation after and within the United Nations.

It is a forum not formally aligned with or against any major power bloc.

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External Affairs Minister Jaishankar Holds Bilateral Meeting With Uganda's Foreign Minister

New York: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar here on Saturday held a meeting with Uganda Foreign Minister Gen JeJe Odongo on the sidelines of the 78th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session.

Earlier on Saturday, Jaishankar met his Egyptian counterpart Sameh Sahoukry and discussed bilateral ties.

On Friday, the EAM had a productive and busy day of engagements with his counterparts from multiple countries on the margins of the 78th United National General Assembly in New York.

The significant day for the EAM began with the meeting with Quad Foreign Ministers including US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Japanese Foreign Minister Yōko Kamikawa.

He also held a bilateral meeting with his Japanese counterpart, Yoko Kamikawa and discussed regional, multilateral and global cooperation.

EAM also met with his Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong and noted the positive trajectory of ties with Australia and discussed specific measures that need to be made to take the relations further.

In a post shared on X, formerly known as Twitter, Jaishankar stated, "Great to catch up with FM @SenatorWong of Australia on #UNGA78 sidelines. Noted the positive trajectory of our ties and discussed specific steps to take them further. Our exchange of regional and global assessments is always valuable.

"Later on, Jaishankar held a meeting with counterparts from Brazil, Bahrain and South Africa. Jaishankar and Bahrain Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani held talks on connectivity, economic linkages and regional dynamics.

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40 Killed By Islamic Terrorists In Uganda School Attack

Kampala: At least 40 people, mostly students, were killed and eight others critically injured after terrorists linked to the Islamic State terror group attacked a school in Uganda located near the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), police said on Saturday.

The attack took place at around 11.30 p.m. on Friday night at the Lhubiriha secondary school in Mpondwe, during which a dormitory was burnt and a food store was looted, reports the BBC.

In a statement, the police said the attack was carried out by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) -- a DRC-based Ugandan rebel group which is a branch of the IS in Central Africa.

Police spokesperson Fred Enang said the Uganda People's Defence Forces and the police are currently carrying out a search operation for the group who fled towards Virunga National park in the DRC after the attack.

The army has also deployed planes to help track the rebel group.

Enang said many of the bodies were transferred to the Bwera Hospital, where the critically injured persons are also undergoing treatment.

"We do offer our deepest condolences to the families of those who have been killed, and offer our prayers and thoughts to those who have been wounded," he said, noting that more details will be availed in due course.

Meanwhile, Major General Dick Olum from the Ugandan army told the media that some of the male students were burnt or hacked to death, the BBC reported.

Others at the school, mostly girls, have been abducted by the group, he added.

Some of the bodies are said to have been badly burnt and DNA tests will need to be carried out to identify them.

The latest incident comes a week after suspected ADF fighters attacked a village in the DRC near the Ugandan border.

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India Going To Be Voice of Global South, Will Take Our Issues To G20: Ugandan High Commissioner

New Delhi: High Commissioner of Uganda to India Joyce Kakuramatsi Kikafunda on Saturday termed the visit of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to her country as beautiful and also said that India is going to be the voice of the Global South and it will bring her country's issues to the G20.

Ugandan High Commissioner Kikafunda expressed her views on India's presidency of G20 and believes New Delhi can be the voice of Global South.

"We believe that they (India) are going to be the voice of the South. India is already going to be a superpower. So we believe they (India) know our issues and they will bring them up and they are ahead of some big countries who have forgotten how it was. But we believe India will bring our voices, our issues or problems to the G20," the Ugandan envoy elaborated.

Reflecting on Jaishankar's visit, the Ugandan envoy told ANI, "The visit was beautiful. I actually accompanied him on that visit. Jaishankar had a beautiful visit. Our President doesn't meet other ministers, he meets heads of state, but because of the relationship between Uganda and India, he met the visiting minister. India Opened the University of Forensic Sciences in Uganda for the first time ever outside India and the first one in Africa. So we are very proud and happy about it. It was a very good visit. The Minister of Foreign Affairs was very happy. And the minister left very happy and said that he loved Uganda and he will come back."

Notably, EAM Jaishankar was on a visit to Uganda and Mozambique from April 10-15 to further strengthen India's "strong bilateral relations" with the two countries.

She also spoke on the bilateral relationship between India and Uganda, "Our bilateral relationships are very good and strong, and they are focused on trade and investment," Kikafunda added.

The envoy also mentioned that Uganda sees India as an elder brother and wants the relationship to continue along with development assistance.

"We don't want just to trade, we want India to come and manufacture products in Uganda. We want the relationship to continue, also the development assistance, because we take India as our elder brother," she added.

Kikafunda was participating in a women entrepreneurs conference hosted by Baroness Verma (Member of the House of Lords of the UK) on Saturday.

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India, Uganda Have Very 'Converging Perspective' In Terms of World Outlook: Jaishankar

New Delhi: In terms of the world outlook, India and Uganda have very converging perspectives which are based on the solidarity of the south-south cooperation between the two nations, said Jaishankar on Thursday in a podcast of his recently concluded Uganda visit.

He said that out of many conversations during his visit to Uganda, future cooperation between India-Africa, and especially India-Uganda was an important subject.

Calling the African nation of Uganda "noteworthy", the External Affairs Minister in his podcast said that he has seen new intensity in interactions between New Delhi and Kampala and that even as we look towards the development side, India has a clear purpose with regard to expanding its economic interactions with the African country.

"When I came here to Kampala 2 days ago, I had the privilege of meeting President Museveni almost immediately. I had interaction with the minister of foreign affairs, and defence, the minister of trade, the minister of water resources and many of their colleagues," Jaishankar informed in the podcast that was posted on the EAM's Twitter handle.

He underlined two important events which coincided with his visit.

Talking about the events in his podcast of the Uganda visit, he said, "On was of the inauguration of the campus of National Forensic Science University and second of beginning of construction of solar water pump project which would bring water to half a million Ugandans spread across 20 districts."

He also talked about how India has always had a regular flow of visitors from the Ugandan side.

"In 2015, President Museveni visited India for India-Africa Forum Summit," the EAM said.

Jaishankar also informed that in 2018, PM Modi had paid a return visit to Kampala. Highlighting the ties between the two nations, he further said that the famous Kampala principles still guide India's partnership with the developing world.

Marking a milestone in Indian-Uganda bilateral cooperation, Jaishankar inaugurated the first foreign campus of India's National Forensic Sciences University in Jinja, Uganda on Wednesday.

"A personal vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, its international footprint is a matter of particular satisfaction," Jaishankar tweeted.

Jaishankar also highlighted that this was a proud day for India, a proud day for Uganda and for the India-Uganda relationship. The inauguration of NFSU's Uganda campus is an example of practical cooperation between the two nations, he added.

Mentioning the courses offered by this university - Forensic Sciences in behavioural sciences, cyber security, digital forensics and allied sciences - Jaishakar said that he was confident that these courses will be in high demand and will bring immense benefits to all the stakeholders in Uganda and in Africa.

Jaishankar on Monday met Uganda's President Yoweri K Museveni at his farm in Rwakitura and congratulated the country on assuming the chairship of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM).

"Privileged to call on President @KagutaMuseveni of Uganda at his farm in Rwakitura. Conveyed the personal greetings of PM @narendramodi. Appreciated his guidance on furthering our traditional and long-standing ties," Jaishankar tweeted.

He also discussed cooperation in trade and investment, infrastructure, energy, defence, health, digital and agricultural domains.

Notably, EAM Jaishankar is on a visit to Uganda and Mozambique from April 10-15 to further strengthen India's "strong bilateral relations" with the two countries.

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Jaishankar Inaugurates Uganda Campus of India's NFSu, Says It's Personal Vision of PM Modi

Jinja: Marking a milestone in Indian-Uganda bilateral cooperation, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar inaugurated the first foreign campus of India's National Forensic Sciences University in Jinja, Uganda on Wednesday.

"A personal vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, its international footprint is a matter of particular satisfaction," Jaishankar tweeted.

Jaishankar also highlighted this was a proud day for India, a proud day for Uganda and for the India-Uganda relationship. The inauguration of NFSU's Uganda campus is an example of practical cooperation between the two nations, he added.

Mentioning the courses offered by this university - Forensic Sciences in behavioural sciences, cyber security, digital forensics and allied sciences - Jaishakar said that he was confident that these courses will be in high demand from students and will bring immense benefits to all the stakeholders in Uganda and in Africa.

In his remarks at the inauguration of the NFSU in Uganda, Jaishankar said, "India's National Forensic Sciences University is opening its campus in Uganda, partnering with the Ugandan People's Defence Forces. This is the first foreign campus of the National Forensic Sciences University. Even more important, it is actually the first government University of India opening a campus anywhere abroad in the world."

"The National Forensic Sciences University is an institution of national importance and is the world's first university dedicated exclusively to forensic sciences. It was established in Ahmadabad in Gujarat, under the dynamic leadership of our Prime Minister. This university conducts courses in forensic sciences, behavioural sciences, cybersecurity, digital forensics, and allied sciences, and also promotes research in these areas," Jaishankar added.

He also said, "For the past few years we have seen that courses in forensic sciences were in very high demand from students in Africa under various scholarships provided by the Government of India. One of the reasons why the stakeholders thought about a campus in Uganda, was in fact the high acceptance of this university among students from Africa."

Jaishankar said that discussions for this campus have been going on between the NFSU and the Ugandan authorities for some time. "The issue got a real push when the President of Uganda wrote to our Prime Minister in August 2022 and the Prime Minister immediately directed the concerned ministries to support NFSU on this proposal. The campus we are going to launch today is therefore reflective of the vision and the relationship of the highest leadership of our both countries. That also makes it a responsibility of all stakeholders to give their best to this institution and make it truly a centre of excellence," he added.

At the inaugural event of NFSU's Uganda campus, Jaishankar also spoke on the defence relations between India and Uganda.

He said, "Our two countries have robust defence relations. India has been regularly training and exchanging with UPDF, under its Economic and Technical Cooperation Programme. About 50 UPDF officers travel to India every year to take defence courses ranging from short-term months to up to one year."

"Further, a four-member Indian Military Advisory and Training Team is stationed in the Defence Staff College of UPDF since 2010 and I acknowledge their presence here today. I am happy to note that our discussions have raised to open up the possibility of further expansion of defence cooperation, in the last few months and years. Cooperation between the National Defence College and the newly constituted NDC of Uganda is also under consideration," Jaishankar concluded.

During his Uganda visit, Jaishankar also discussed Millets with a Ugandan chef. "Great to discuss Millets and their importance in Ugandan culture. Shree Anna is another facet binding us together," he tweeted.

Notably, EAM Jaishankar is on a visit to Uganda and Mozambique from April 10-15 to further strengthen India's "strong bilateral relations" with the two countries.

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EAM Jaishankar Launches 'Tulsi Ghat Restoration Project' In Uganda

Kampala: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday launched the 'Tulsi Ghat Restoration Project' of Varanasi, during his visit to Uganda's Kampala.

Taking to Twitter, Jaishankar, who is on a three-day visit to Uganda, appreciated the initiatives of Overseas Friends of BJP-Uganda's initiative to contribute to further beautifying the oldest living city in the world.

"Living in a land of the Nile, their commitment to a ghat on the Ganga reflects the confluence of our two cultures. The conservation of Varanasi's heritage underlines the cultural revival of India. This has profound global implications," he said.

"Confident that many more members of the Indian community in Uganda will keep visiting Varanasi and continue their efforts for its redevelopment," he added.

Earlier, on Monday, he met Uganda's President Yoweri K Museveni at his farm in Rwakitura and congratulated the country on assuming the chairship of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM).

"Privileged to call on President @KagutaMuseveni of Uganda at his farm in Rwakitura. Conveyed the personal greetings of PM @narendramodi. Appreciated his guidance on furthering our traditional and long-standing ties," tweeted Jaishankar.

He also discussed cooperation in trade and investment, infrastructure, energy, defence, health, digital and agricultural domains.

"Discussed cooperation in trade & investment, infrastructure, energy, defence, health, digital and agricultural domains. Congratulated Uganda on assuming the chairship of the NAM and affirmed our strong coordination at multilateral forums including the United Nations," tweeted Jaishankar.

Uganda was endorsed to chair the Non-Aligned Movement on behalf of Africa for the period from 2022 to 2025.

The NAM chair position rotates every three years during summit conferences. The chair of the movement is assisted by both the former and incoming chairs. According to the movement, this structure represents its past, present and future.

During his visit to Uganda, Jaishankar will have delegation-level talks with his Ugandan counterpart as both sides will look forward to enhancing bilateral ties between the two nations. And he is expected to hold talks with Ugandan counterpart General Jeje Odongo and call on the leadership of the country and meet other Ministers, the Ministry of External Affairs said in an official release on Sunday.

From April 13-15, Jaishankar will visit Mozambique. "This will be the first-ever visit by an External Affairs Minister of India to the Republic of Mozambique," stated the MEA release.

During the visit, he will meet Mozambique's top leadership and co-chair the 5th Session of the Joint Commission Meeting with Mozambican Foreign Minister Veronica Macamo.

The EAM is expected to meet several other Ministers and representatives of the Assembly of Mozambique.

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Jaishankar Meets Uganda's President, Congratulates The African Nation On Assuming NAM Chairship

Kampala: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar who is on a three-day visit to Uganda met President Yoweri K Museveni on Monday at his farm in Rwakitura and congratulated the country on assuming the chairship of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM).

"Privileged to call on President @KagutaMuseveni of Uganda at his farm in Rwakitura. Conveyed the personal greetings of PM @narendramodi. Appreciated his guidance on furthering our traditional and long-standing ties," tweeted Jaishankar.

He also discussed cooperation in trade and investment, infrastructure, energy, defense, health, digital and agricultural domains.

"Discussed cooperation in trade & investment, infrastructure, energy, defense, health, digital and agricultural domains. Congratulated Uganda on assuming the chairship of the NAM and affirmed our strong coordination at multilateral forums including the United Nations," tweeted Jaishankar.

Uganda was endorsed to chair the Non-Aligned Movement on behalf of Africa for the period from 2022 to 2025.

The NAM chair position rotates every three years during summit conferences. The chair of the movement is assisted by both the former and incoming chairs. According to the movement, this structure represents its past, present and future.

Azerbaijan chaired the NAM for the period between 2019 to 2022 having taken over from Venezuela.

The Non-Aligned Movement was formed in 1961 during the end of the colonial system and the independence struggles globally and at the height of the Cold War.

The NAM is composed of 120 member states from the developing world and is the largest forum for political coordination and consultation after and within the United Nations.

It is a forum not formally aligned with or against any major power bloc.

Jaishankar arrived in Uganda for a 3-day diplomatic visit on Monday afternoon. On his arrival, the EAM was received by Foreign Minister General Jeje Odongo and Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs, Vincent Ssempijja.

During his visit to Uganda, Jaishankar will have delegation-level talks with his Ugandan counterpart as both sides will look forward to enhancing bilateral ties between the two nations.

Jaishankar took to Twitter and wrote, "Arrived in Uganda this afternoon. Glad to be received by Foreign Minister General Jeje Odongo and Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs, Vincent Ssempijja."

"Look forward to productive discussions to take forward South-South cooperation," the tweet read further.

During the visit from April 10-12, he is expected to hold talks with Ugandan counterpart General Jeje Odongo and call on the leadership of the country and meet other Ministers, the Ministry of External Affairs said in an official release on Sunday.

During the visit, Jaishankar will inaugurate the transit campus of the National Forensic Science University (NFSU) in Jinja. A bilateral memorandum of understanding (MoU) between India and Uganda on setting up of the first-ever campus of NFSU outside India is likely to be signed during the visit, the press release said.

Jaishankar will also attend the ground-breaking ceremony of a solar-powered water supply project in Uganda. He will also address the trade and business community of Uganda and have an interaction with the Indian diaspora, according to an MEA press release.

From April 13-15, Jaishankar will visit Mozambique. "This will be the first-ever visit by an External Affairs Minister of India to the Republic of Mozambique," according to the MEA release.

During the visit, he will meet Mozambique's top leadership and co-chair the 5th Session of the Joint Commission Meeting with Mozambican Foreign Minister Veronica Macamo.

The EAM is expected to meet several other Ministers and representatives of the Assembly of Mozambique.

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