After four years, finally, President Paul Kagame of Rwanda comes back to Uganda soil on Saturday, April 23, 2022, in order to mark the UPDF commander of land forces Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s 48th birthday celebrations.
Muhoozi is credited with a substantial role in negotiating the Rwanda – Uganda standoff that saw Katuna/Gatuna border closed for close to 2 years.
The last time President Kagame visited Uganda was on March 25, 2018, and that was only for one day visit at President Yoweri Museveni’s invitation.
According to the foreign affairs minister ‘Sam Kutesa,’ the two heads of state held official talks in a cordial and friendly atmosphere.
After four years, no show occurred, and now the Rwandan President will be on Ugandan soil once more, and this time the purpose of his visit is to celebrate the birthday of Museveni’s son.
The foreign affairs minister, ‘Jeje Odongo’ confirmed through his website, he wrote, “I can confirm he will be here tomorrow (on Saturday) in a bid to attend the birthday of Muhoozi.”
As per the Odongo interview, his ministry has already assigned a minister to ensure Kagame’s safe stay in the country.
However, the ties between Rwanda and Uganda took a turn for the worse in 2019, during the time when Rwanda closed its border at Gatuna.
Rwanda blamed Uganda for having persons who posed security threats to the state. It also accused Uganda of harassing and arresting Rwandan nationals in the country. Uganda denied these charges.
Furthermore, Odongo added that We still did not resolve the issues, but we are continuing the conservations to restore the friendship.
Kagame is the President who was always regular at all Uganda state functions and was no show even when Museveni took oath for his 6th term in office.
And as the Gatuna / Katuna border remained closed and business at a stand still for close to two years, Commander land forces Muhoozi journeyed to Rwanda to discuss Uganda – Rwanda issues.
“Muhoozi played a big role in the negotiations,” Odongo added.
The first son will host an open to the public celebration at Lugogo Cricket Oval on Saturday, in addition to a state banquet hosted by President Museveni at State house Entebbe.
Meanwhile, police have said several roads will be blocked, and traffic on Jinja Road will be diverted.
