In his speech during the celebration of Uganda’s 62nd Independence Day, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni announced bold plans for strengthening trade and infrastructure links between East Africa and Central Africa.>
Speaking on October 9, President Museveni emphasized the importance of building key road networks to facilitate trade and connectivity across the region, especially with South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and the Central African Republic (CAR).
“Central Africa, particularly the Central African Republic, holds tremendous potential as a trading partner for East Africa,” Museveni declared.
He highlighted a recent meeting in Entebbe where discussions were held regarding road construction projects that would link Uganda, South Sudan, and CAR.
“We need to persuade the government of South Sudan for a road through Yei, Maridi, and Yambio up to the Central African Republic. This will ensure East Africa is linked by road, at least with Central Africa, and beyond,” Museveni added, signaling a major shift towards integrating regional economies.
Additionally, the Ugandan President invited Ugandan Airlines and air cargo companies to explore new air routes to Bangui, the capital of CAR. “Even if it is not daily, flying to Bangui a few times can link us with our brothers and sisters,” he suggested, underlining the potential benefits of air connectivity for enhancing regional commerce.
While, this initiative is expected to significantly boost trade between East Africa and Central Africa, creating new opportunities for businesses, traders, and farmers across Uganda, South Sudan, the DRC, and CAR. By improving road and air links, the flow of goods and services across these borders will be easier, faster, and more efficient.
Citizens in Uganda, South Sudan, and CAR will see increased economic opportunities as regional trade barriers reduce and new markets open up.
The development of road networks through key border points like Yei and Yambio in South Sudan will also provide much-needed infrastructure for local economies, improving access to markets for agricultural and industrial products.
Economists predict that such initiatives could lead to greater trade and commerce and stimulate economic growth in remote regions that have previously struggled due to poor transportation links.
Local traders have hailed President Museveni’s announcement as a game-changer for business.
“This will cut transportation costs and reduce delivery time for our goods to Central Africa. It opens a completely new market for us,” said James Katongole, a trader based in Kampala. Many in the business community echoed these sentiments, seeing the move as a catalyst for boosting trade volumes.
However, economists, are cautious but optimistic as Dr. William B, an economist in Yambio, stated, “While the vision is commendable, the success of this initiative will depend on effective collaboration between the governments involved. Road construction and maintenance require significant investment, and political stability in South Sudan will be crucial to ensuring the roads stay operational.”
Nevertheless, with Uganda taking a leading role, the proposed infrastructure projects have the potential to reshape trade dynamics across Central and East Africa, fostering deeper economic integration and improving the livelihoods of millions. By Emmanuel Mandella, City Review
